OpenRoad Driver Volume 17 Issue 1 Nov. 2021 | Page 97

Volume 17 Issue 1 » 95
Hyundai IONIQ 5 Universal Island Moveable Centre Console
Hyundai has been a pioneer in the alternative energy space , launching both battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles ahead of many competitors . Hyundai ’ s latest product is aiming to blur the lines between home and auto . The theme of the interior is called “ Living Space .” It introduces the Universal Island , a unique moveable centre console that can slide back as much as 140 millimetres , opening up space for occupants to move about the cabin in an unrestricted fashion , and exit on either side in the event t here is something obstructing the door .
In addition , the power-adjustable front seats — upholstered in eco-friendly materials made from recycled PET bottles and plant-based extracts — possess integrated footrests . They recline to an optimal angle , permitting passengers to relax and gaze out the top of the glass vision roof ( equippable with solar charging ) while the IONIQ 5 is plugged in .
Mercedes-Benz EQS MBUX Hyperscreen
The list of Mercedes-Benz EQS highlights is long , but perhaps one of the most impressive items is the massive Mercedes-Benz User Experience ( MBUX ) Hyperscreen that dominates the dashboard . The 55-inch curved OLED display acts as the command centre of the upscale electric full-size four door , split into separate driver and passenger sections . The former has access to traditional instrument gauges and EV-specific readouts , and the latter can customize what they want to see from entertainment content to climate settings .
Hyperscreen includes built-in artificial intelligence to help users navigate virtual infrastructure and interact with the car in a more intuitive manner . For instance , if each day the adaptive air suspension is raised to clear a steep driveway upon returning home , MBUX remembers the GPS position where this occurs and asks to autonomously execute the task . Or , it might be as simple as learning when to suggest sending a birthday greeting to a friend or family member .