Trends from the International Motor Show
The automotive industry is bracing itself for the future. Three models from Germany demonstrate where the road is headed.
With its “7 Series” BMW has no doubt redefined the luxury segment. The top-class auto offers more assistance systems than any other serially produced vehicle: think laser light, gesture control, and a display key. What is more, BMW is equally blazing new trails in car body construction. For the first time in this large-scale production key parts in the vehicle structure have been made of carbon.
Two vehicle classes below, another auto destined to cause a stir in the market and revolutionize the image of its brand is celebrating a premiere: the new Audi A4. Though it presents itself with only slight modifications in its visual appeal, the rejuvenated mid-range car is destined to set new standards, above all as regards intelligence and efficiency. For the former, expect a fascinating infotainment system featuring digital tools, online updates and a vast fleet of assistance systems; for the latter think a 120-kg weight gain and extremely low air resistance of cW = 0.23, a potentially record-breaking figure. Making it no doubt the most streamlined series model in its class to date.
Finally, Volkswagen is showcasing the new Tiguan. It is lighter, more economical, spacious and versatile than its predecessor. The plan is to have not one, but three car body versions, which cater especially to the tastes of Europeans, Americans and Asians. This too is a way of safeguarding the future. Putting the Tiguan in pole position to become the best-selling SUV in the compact class the world over.
The International Motor Show runs from 17 to 27 September 2015 in Frankfurt/Main
