India’s automobile industry has embarked upon the road of digitisation in this evolving phase. Contactless in-car experiences and online modes of buying a vehicle are being practised.
Brands like Audi, Skoda, BMW and Jaguar Land Rover are aggressively venturing into this space guided by state-of-the-art technology.
Augmented reality (AR) is transforming the automobile industry in more ways than one can imagine. For instance, Audi is utilising this technology to fill the void, created due to the limited human interaction. Among the German car manufacturer’s recent launches in India is Audi RS 7 Sportback priced at ₹1.94 crore. To enable customers to explore the varied features of this new model, the brand is offering an AR experience, under which a 360° product visualiser is available to analyse tech specifications and customisation options. Visit audiindia.in, scan the bar code and experience the Audi RS 7 Sportback.
Supervising one’s own health is vital in this current scenario. Taking this into account, Skoda Auto India has equipped Karoq model with iBuzz Fatigue Alert that detects any signs of fatigue in the driver and notifies him or her to take a break. For instance, the system detects the moment you start to feel sleepy or lose concentration and advises you to stop and take rest.
To increase its sales and stay connected with its customers, the brand has come up with Skoda contactless programme, with the website buyskodaonline.co.in. The brand has updated the programme with a host of online demo features for prospective buyers that happens via video conferencing. Some features include a live sales consultation and a contactless virtual product demonstration. Additionally, there is a Myskoda mobile application as well.
Likewise, BMW’s contactless experience allows you to have a digital-first purchase service giving you all the benefits of a brick and mortar dealership.
Another highlight is the digital car key facility that BMW is offering in partnership with Apple. The digital car key on your compatible iPhone allows you to conveniently and securely lock, unlock, and start your BMW.
Jaguar Land Rover in partnership with the University of Cambridge has developed a contactless touchscreen to reduce the transmission of bacteria and viruses. Jaguar Land Rover explains, “The patented technology, known as ‘predictive touch’, uses artificial intelligence and sensors to predict a user’s intended target on the touchscreen – whether that’s satellite navigation, temperature control or entertainment settings – without touching a button.”
Minimising the aspect of touch, MG Motor India’s Hector Plus’ ‘chit-chat’ tool helps you converse through the artificial intelligence-based voice assistant system. To up its tech game, the car comes with a smart swipe feature, where you can open the boot with your leg.
