Car maker Audi is turning to the latest connected technology to develop an in-car system for enhancing the health and fitness of its drivers.
This forms part of its commitment to championing healthcare innovations. It’s a founding partner in the Berlin-based Flying Health Incubator, which supports start-ups working on technologies for the health industries.
The firm is in the process of creating a system that aims to ensure drivers are always comfortable and healthy when making journeys and arriving at their destinations.
Called ‘Audi Fit Driver’, it incorporates wearable technology – smartwatches being a prime example – with car sensors to monitor vitals like heart rate and skin temperature.
Data to the max
While this happens, driving style, weather and traffic are also considered. This data can help the driver determine if certain factors are linked and affecting their driving experience.
The car’s systems will respond to the information as well. They’ll be able to relax and protect the driver based on the data the wearables and sensors have collated.
For example, the car could provide with a seat massage, adjust the air conditioning or lighting, and initiate an emergency stop. Audi envisions a time when cars will respond to their driver’s every movement and feeling.
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Mental health also a focus
It’s not just physical health that’s the focus of the concept. Audi is also investigating ways it can help drivers improve their stress levels and concentration while driving, particularly longer journeys where they may become frustrated. It could recommend rest-breaks and breathing exercises.
While the car manufacturer has a vision here, the system is only in the concept and development stages at this current moment in time. The firm hasn’t announced plans for a public roll-out as of yet.
A tech solution
Dietmar Voggenreiter, a marketing and sales board member at Audi, said that as health is a big focus in our daily lives, it’s important that we also focus on it while driving too. His firm, he continued, is responding to this need with technology.
“More than ever, health and fitness are becoming top priorities in our daily life. With the fully connected car, we are creating the time and space to respond to this need while also driving. Automotive health is an outstanding example of the many opportunities that digitalization opens up for us,” he said in a statement.