Remember when you used to watch your favorite super hero or spy movie where the protagonist has a bevy of electronic gadgets and gizmos to defeat the bad guys? Well those days might not be as far off as many remember as Kia is planning on releasing their next-gen interior and Automotive Infotainment system at the upcoming 2014 CES show.
Kia has come a long way since it’s early days through some leaner times and models, but it’s not hard to see just how far the South Korean car manufacturer has grown in quality, form and market share. They recently revealed their next-gen infotainment systems that promise to revolutionize the experience for the driver.
Kia’s User-Centered Driver concept is a widescreen display that measures 18 inches across, paired to a 12.3-inch TFT display that can provide real time data to the driver. Hand gesture recognition and 3D displays are just scratching the surface of what could technically be possible, and with tech giants like Google leading the charge it truly is redefining the connection between driver and automobile.
Recent developments with Google’s Open Auto Alliance that will bring the Android platform into cars built by partners of the OAA, which include such names as General Motors, Audi, Honda, and Hyundai.
Putting the entertainment into the technology is what Kia likes to call the IVI concept which can be paired with a tablet or smartphone. With HD wireless connectivity and the possibility of sideloading any number of aftermarket applications that you might normally use your tablet or phone for, all in a 20-inch multi touch display.
Kia will also bring along their sporty hatchback known as the Cub Concept at the upcoming CES show, debuting for the first time on US soil. Powered by a 1.6 liter 280 hp turbocharged Direct Injection Engine, the Cub looks like it could compete with some of the other sporty hatchbacks in it’s class.
Although the Cub is a staple in Kia’s homeland of South Korea, sadly, it’s yet another vehicle that enthusiasts in the US will most likely get frozen out of.
And the recent surge in rear wheel drive light sporty compacts to follow in the Toyabaru pair, could Kia join GM, Honda, and Nissan in delivering a lightweight, sporty rear wheel drive coupe? Only time will tell.
Audi has also announced their next-gen interior, even though they don’t have a vehicle to put it into quite yet. Laser headlights has also been a very hot topic for Audi, and while the doubters and NHTSA fanatics may be in uproar Audi claims that laser headlights will be coming.. very soon.
Named the Sport Quattro Laserlight concept the high tech headlight system promises to “leave all previous systems in the dark” according to Audi. Using an array of matrix LEDs around the element for the low beams and laser diodes to deliver the laser headlight for highbeams, while providing illumination up to 1,640 feet. Wow.
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