Earlier this year at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show, Volkswagen introduced the technology-filled Golf R Touch concept.
The Golf R Touch is said to fine-tune the line between human interaction and the automobile. It retains the exterior design of the MK7 Golf R, but features several intriguing goodies in the cabin, previewing an evolution of the company’s infotainment system while exploring gestures as a way to control certain vehicle functions. Though most settings are controllable through the giant touchscreen found in the center stack, the new system is designed to reduce driver distraction by using movement gestures.
The main touchscreen measures 12.8 inches (35.5 cm) diagonally and controls the infotainment system, while an 8-inch (20 cm) screen is located immediately beneath it for climate control functions. Rounding out the plethora of screens is the gauge cluster, which has been replaced by a 12.3-inch Active Info Display with digitized instrumentation. It replaces conventional dials and shows vital information through a set of digitized gauges. Just like your favorite smartphone or tablet, the screens allow for a wide range of customization.
The gesture functionality is enabled by a 3D camera installed in the roof’s lining. When the driver touches the roof, digital controls for the sunroof will show up on the main 12.8-inch screen. Moving the hand from front to rear will open the sunroof, and the opposite motion will close it.
These types of gestures are found throughout the Volkswagen Golf R Touch Concept. For instance, running the hand alongside the seat will present seat commands on the central display, allowing the driver or passenger to customize the position of their seats.
Volkswagen is also enabling for a wide range of customization, including the ability to control the ambient lighting in the cabin. According to the automaker, there are 16.7 million different color combinations — so we’re certain that there’s a color to fit anyone’s mood, personality, and disposition.
The Motrolix Take
Sooner or later, each of the technologies above will be available on a production Volkswagen vehicle, rather than a concept. In that regard, we believe that it’s a question of when rather than if.
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