As part of a streamlining of the ordering process for its e-tron models, Audi has revamped the capabilities of its Audi Virtual Cockpit and the touchscreen MMI Touch system. The company noted that the MMI system can be controlled either by a fingertip or via voice control, and has been further enhanced through the integration of a more powerful, third generation MIB 3 modular infotainment platform.
The auto maker stated that this can now access speech recognition software in the cloud during its formulation of responses to spoken commands, to increase the accuracy of comprehension and feedback. Phone book contacts can also be accessed vocally, as can a radio station or a track from the media library, and the system can now produce text messages via dictation. The climate control system also now responds to the spoken word.
Thanks to the new processor, the navigation system has become more intelligent, Audi said, with the ability to learn a driver’s habits, meaning that during route planning it can make suggestions based on previously-driven routes, taking into account the time and traffic congestion, and can even now provide lane-by-lane information on traffic flow. Routes are calculated online on the servers of the service provider Here, which uses data from the overall traffic situation. In the interest of optimal route guidance accuracy, Audi has made free over-the-air map updates available to e-tron drivers on a monthly basis.
Drivers of all versions of the e-tron also have the option to display and control navigation and infotainment apps from a smartphone on the central MMI monitor using the standard Audi Smartphone Interface, and this now takes place wirelessly as an additional benefit of the upgrade to MIB 3 connection.
