Renault details the OpenR infotainment system of the new Mégane E-Tech Electric, and in particular its double L-shaped screen. Based on Google’s Android platform, it is as intuitive as a smartphone.
New platform, new 100% electric engine, new logo… the Mégane E-Tech Electric inaugurates a number of elements at Renault, including the OpenR dashboard comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch central touch screen in a double L-shaped panel. Note, however, that this configuration is only offered from the second level of the range called Techno, the Balance access model having to make do with a central 9-inch monitor. Behind these screens, the entire infotainment system is new. Renault details the specifics today.
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By car Google
The hardware part of this multimedia system is provided by the American manufacturer Qualcomm, the software architecture by the South Korean LG and the operating system by Google, big names but also partners spread all over the world, a configuration which is not without causing some industrial difficulties in these times of shortage of electronic chips. The OpenR interface is based on the Android system, like many smartphones. ” The idea is to draw inspiration from the best practices that customers are used to finding on their smartphone, so that they don’t have to relearn how to use a new system. explains Marc Pinel, Director of User Experience Design at Renault.
Google’s ecosystem makes it possible to find applications such as Google Maps for navigation on board the vehicle, and to consider extending car connectivity via future updates. Note that OpenR is compatible with Apple CarPlay. Renault is not the only manufacturer to have partnered with Google; this is notably the case of Volvo.
A delicate balance between physical and digital
” Today, 90% of the functions you need every day are just a click or two away. And everything is visible on the screen: there is no hidden page “Explains the manager to praise the ease of use of the device. However, the features are numerous and some physical buttons have been retained. The Mégane E-Tech is thus equipped with a multifunction steering wheel and keys related to ventilation are positioned under the central screen, a choice that sometimes forces you to take your eyes off the road to use them. On the other hand, to avoid “empty” slots corresponding to uninstalled optional equipment, all the optional functions are used via the central screen. We salute the discreet integration of an aerator between the two displays allowing precisely guided ventilation despite the presence of the double slab.
The double TFT screen covering 774 cm² is highlighted by the absence of a cap. The dashboard is fitted with micro-blinds to limit reflections. The Gorilla glass of the slab manufactured by the German equipment manufacturer Continental is announced to be insensitive to scratches and resistant to shocks, with a durability of 15 years. By then, the OpenR multimedia system will have spread within the Renault range.
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