Bosch has developed a display-based instrument panel for the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid. The high-contrast TFT display, which has a diagonal screen size of 8.8 inches, presents the vehicle’s current speed on the left, while the instrumentation on the right changes depending on which of the i8’s driving modes has been selected.
In ‘Comfort’ mode, the display shows a power metre on the right that indicates the energy utilisation on a dial, including the e-boost from the electric traction motor and the recuperation via the brakes. The ‘Eco Pro’ mode provides a more detailed representation of the transition states between the propulsion technologies, which can help the driver adopt a more economic driving style. Meanwhile, the ‘Sport’ mode presents a rev counter on the right. In all modes, the space between the two sets of instruments is used flexibly to display navigation, radio or telephone information.
The instrument cluster uses dual-processor architecture, with one processing unit dedicated to handling the graphics and the other for the remaining functions. A level of computing power was chosen that additionally enables the electronics of a head-up display to be controlled via the instrument cluster. Data connectivity is provided by CAN (Controller Area Network) and MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) systems.
Bosch said: “The biggest advantage of a purely display-based instrument cluster is its versatility. It gives designers and developers complete freedom when devising the graphics and layout for the display area, thus leading to unprecedented design possibilities. Almost any conceivable shapes and colours can be utilised for a wide variety of operating states. The monitor furthermore allows specific navigation and online content to be presented to the driver clearly.” The TFT display is covered with an optically bonded pane of mineral glass, like the latest smartphones and tablet PCs.
