Yanfeng has used CES to introduce an interior concept, a high-tech seat, and a modular steering wheel
3 hours ago
Yanfeng isn’t a household name, but the supplier is making a splash at CES with the EVI (Electric Vehicle Interior) concept.
As the company noted, the auto industry is undergoing a radical transformation as companies are shifting to electric vehicles. Despite this, EV interiors have largely resembled their gas-powered counterparts.
Yanfeng is envisioning something different as the EVI concept “incorporates all key features and interior functions into a Smart Cabin seat.” It features an active headrest with integrated speakers as well as “safety systems, smart surfaces, … storage and charging.”
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The company didn’t go into many specifics, but the concept appears to have a module that consists of two seats and a floating center console. The latter houses a wireless smartphone charger as well as a freestanding infotainment system.
Elsewhere, the traditional dashboard has been eliminated and replaced by a large curved display. It appears to be mounted on a wraparound pad, which is accented by ambient lighting.
Yanfeng said research has shown that electric vehicle owners want access to more technology as well as different technology than in ICE vehicles. They also want “smooth and seamless experiences” as well as something that is “fun and enjoyable.”
Given this, the company wanted to “simplify the vehicle interior while keeping the functionality that users expect.” Yanfeng added their concept has additional benefits as it would simplify vehicle assembly as well as reduce weight.
Besides the EVI concept, Yanfeng used CES to introduce their next-generation Hover Seat. It has pressure sensors that effectively ‘map out’ your body. With this information in hand, the seat automatically adjusts the headrest, lumbar support, and side wings to cradle the occupant.
If that wasn’t fancy enough, the seat detects the “occupant changing their posture over time, then determines the degree and location of fatigue, and automatically triggers the partition massage function.” They’re joined by “multi-faceted support blocks,” which are automatically adjusted to provide support where needed. There’s also a Zero Gravity mode, which enables the seat to recline up to 126° at the touch of a button.
Yanfeng also showed a modular steering wheel concept, which is recyclable and features changeable segments. Speaking of the latter, the company said there are “two, three or four shells, alternating between wood and leather, fabric or natural fibers.”
Furthermore, the ClickRim steering wheel is envisioned to be made using a new manufacturing process that greatly reduces complexity. The company says it saves “around two-thirds of the conventional production time for each steering wheel” as it eliminates time consuming manual processes required by traditional steering wheels.
