Honda EV Takes Wide View of Digital Displays

Honda Motor Co.’s upcoming “E” electric city car will feature five dashboard displays that span the width of the passenger cabin.

The setup includes two 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreens and an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. These three are flanked by a pair of 6-inch monitors that display images from rearview exterior side cameras.

The two main LCD touchscreens can be operated in tandem or independently—including separate smartphone integration—by the driver and front-seat passenger. Users can customize the screen, move and enlarge information and share content between screens.

Connected services and applications also can be accessed using voice commands via the Honda Personal Assistant. The system uses artificial intelligence machine learning that Honda says adapts to a user’s voice and enables contextual understanding to create natural conversations and provide access to a range of online service.

Users also can access a variety of vehicle features and download new apps directly from the touchscreens. To complement the touchscreen controls, the new EV boasts an array of physical buttons and knobs on the center console and steering wheel to give motorists quick access to frequently used systems.

Honda plans to launch the small EV next year in Europe. There are no plans to offer the car in the U.S.