Yanfeng Automotive Interiors (YFAI), the world’s largest supplier of automotive interiors, has developed a slim overhead console that is only 15 millimeters thick and features an innovative sunroof control.
The new console offers virtually all functions of a traditional overhead console, but does not interfere with the driver’s headroom. With this new overhead console, YFAI has reduced the weight and space required by 55 to 80 percent in comparison to conventional components. As a result, automakers can lower the roof-lines while creating a feeling of greater spaciousness in the vehicle interior.
The YFAI console offers most of the features and functions of traditional overhead consoles, including lighting for switches as well as the integration of lights, microphones and garage door openers.
The new slim overhead console improves interior spaciousness for vehicle occupants,” said Han Hendriks, vice president Advanced Product Development and Sales at Yanfeng Automotive Interiors. “The innovative accent lighting also supports the brand identity of the vehicle.”
In addition to the economical and ecological benefits of the new overhead console, the functionality, look and feel also play a role.
“Users can intuitively operate the sunroof from the overhead console with a swiping gesture,” explained Hendriks. Additionally, the driver can activate the emergency response button on the overhead console. With the press of a button, the basic lighting on the console changes to red and a clearly audible warning signal is sounded.
With its slim packaging of the overhead console, YFAI is supporting the design strategies of automakers towards lower roof-lines or optimised windshield angles in favour of improved aerodynamics. YFAI is thus helping vehicle manufacturers meet guidelines for reducing CO2 emissions while simultaneously satisfying customer demand for a more spacious feel.
The slim overhead console is available for model year 2016 vehicles.
About Yanfeng Automotive Interiors
Yanfeng Automotive Interiors is the world’s leading supplier of instrument panels and cockpit systems, door panels, floor consoles and overhead consoles. Headquartered in Shanghai, the company has more than 90 manufacturing and technical centers in 17 countries and employs over 28,000 people globally. Established in 2015, Yanfeng Automotive Interiors is a joint venture between Yanfeng Automotive Trim Systems Co., Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Huayu Automotive Systems Co., Ltd. (HASCO), the component group of SAIC Motor Corporation Limited (SAIC Motor), and Johnson Controls a global multi-industrial company. For more information, please visit www.YFAI.com.
Please visit the Yanfeng Automotive Interiors media microsite for the IAA 2015 for additional images: http://iaa2015-media.yfai.com
18 September 2015
