Though we covered the Opel Monza concept, which debuted at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, one important aspect has to be highlighted. Thankfully, the BEST sleuth in the automotive biz, Agent 001, was paying attention and snapped a good amount of photographs of the subject at hand here.
The Monza has something other cars don't. Inside the cabin it has a massive LED projector screen. As far as I know this is an automotive first. Much like BMW's take on making the interior a more social place to be, Opel is doing something similar here. Rather than having multiple screens to display information, the Monza does it all on one large screen that spans from each door.
For the FULL details, please check out the FULL press release below...
An excerpt from Opel's press release follows:
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Connectivity: Efficient and well-connected into the automotive future
Efficiency and connectivity are the main focus of development in focus for next generation of Opel models. The Monza Concept offers a fascinating preview of these developments. Once behind the wheel, the Monza Concept whisks you away into a completely new and unique world of instruments and infotainment. The original Monza was also way ahead of its time 35 years ago with a digital display in the cockpit.
The Monza Concept continues innovating with state-of-the-art LED projection technology. Drivers no longer find the conventional individual, separate monitors that display different information; instead, they face a wide, sculpted dashboard that sweeps from door to door, and is used as a single projection surface. Information and decorative elements are displayed on the surface, which the driver can customize according to his needs, taste or mood. A total of 18 LED projectors create a continuous, adaptable multi-functional display. This is a world premiere in an automobile. Already established in the events arena, this technology has caused a sensation at major occasions such as Queen Elizabeth's Jubilee, and Opel designers were first to think of implementing it in a passenger car. The 3D graphics are impressive, and reflect all important functions from precise vehicle and driver information to internet and communication options as well as decorative elements. Both the area displaying information and the background can be individually configured, and operation is via voice control and steering wheel controls.
Efficiency and clarity are also priorities here: when it came to how the displays present information, Opel engineers focused on the best and most personal way to make relevant data available to the driver. The approach was "simplifying the multitude" and so details on the car, the navigation and the smartphone settings and connection only appear when necessary or desired. So drivers can use a wide range of information without being overwhelmed by text or images. This also makes the Monza Concept a model of future HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) systems, as its interior design is based on latest research findings in this field.
This also applies to the comprehensive smartphone connectivity in the Monza Concept. With three worlds of connectivity – called ME, US and ALL – drivers can focus solely on their driving experience, or get in touch with friends and family or even connect to the whole internet community. With ME the infotainment system virtually disconnects the drivers' smartphone and prioritizes the information relevant for the driving experience. US enables the passengers of the Monza Concept to connect with a group of selected people such as friends and family members: these can log-in to the car's infotainment system with their own communication device and exchange information, music and images, chat and make appointments, etc. ALL goes beyond US. It allows the driver and virtually the whole outside world to connect. Drivers can for example spontaneously share their planned route online over a tablet or smartphone so that people can catch a ride with them along the way – enabling a new kind of instant car-sharing. With this trailblazing infotainment and connectivity technology, the Monza Concept shows how far ahead Opel designers and engineers are thinking, so that the next generation of cars make their contribution to a harmonious, connected society
The trendsetting sensor and connectivity technology in the Monza Concept has even more to offer: it gives a preview of the advancements in "Car-to-Car" and "Car-to-X" systems – prerequisites for future autonomous driving and areas in which the research department at Opel is already intensively working. By comprehensively connecting road users, intercommunication can be enhanced, as can safety, because dangerous traffic situations are registered earlier and more accurately than before.
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The 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) photo galleries are sponsored by Lexus.
Frankfurt Motor Show Gallery
