The German luxury brand Audi has had a challenging time in the Indian automotive sector in the past year. In addition to strong economic headwinds, fewer launches in 2018-2019 have adversely affected the carmaker's sales figures in the country.
However, Audi aims to turn that around by bringing in the latest models and technology into the domestic market. And, as a step in that direction, the automaker recently introduced a host of tech-driven services to enhance the purchase and ownership experience of customers. Read on to know more about the new products that the German marque has to offer.
Connected car technology
As a first among luxury carmakers in the country, Audi India has introduced a cloud-based telematics solution that provides owners access to relevant vehicle information via a mobile app. Called 'myAudi Connect', the smart connectivity tech is similar to Hyundai's Blue Link and MG's iSmart services and can be retrofitted to all Audi vehicles, starting from model year 2011.
The telematics service, which can be availed for a subscription fee of Rs 19,999 for three years, offers multiple features that can be clubbed under the following categories:
- Safety and security
The myAudi Connect mobile app allows users to send SOS alerts in case of an accident or call for roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown. Additionally, time- and location-based fencing can be configured to alert the owner if the vehicle is driven beyond the set conditions.
- Geo location
Useful for those who'd like to monitor their chauffeur's or their children's use of the car, the telematics suite can provide them with vehicle location tracking in real time. It can also help guide people back to their parking spots. Configurable alerts can notify owners in the event of their vehicle being towed away. Moreover, myAudi Connect allows users to do a POI (point of interest) search right from within the mobile app instead of going through their car's infotainment system.
- Utility
Subscribers can use the platform to book service appointments and review service history. The connected tech further provides them with various details depicting vehicle health. Additionally, the app's ability to store digital copies of the car's documents can prove to be a handy tool.
- Driver behaviour
The myAudi Connect services can analyse various driving parameters like acceleration and braking and provide a driving score. Furthermore, it can be configured to sound an alert in case of prolonged engine idling times.
- Lifestyle
To enhance the in-car entertainment experience, the app provides users access to audiobooks, podcasts and music from various streaming platforms. It even extends the services of a concierge for making dining, travel and other kinds of reservations.
Digital retail experience
Audi has begun the process of rolling out AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality) technologies at its dealerships across the country. Set up in dedicated 'experience zones' in the brand's showrooms, the virtual displays will enhance the buying experience for prospective customers who can visualise and personalise their vehicles, starting from exterior paint shades and wheel rim designs, right down to the choice of leather upholstery and other inlays and textures in the cabin.
Audi is also extending the facility of making these services available at any convenient location, which means buyers could customise their dream cars right from the comfort of their homes.
In addition to introducing these new digital technologies, Audi will soon begin revamping its product line-up in the country. The automaker is gearing up to introduce its flagship luxury sedan, the A8, as well as its first electric vehicle, the e-tron, by the end of this year. The updated A6 executive sedan will also make its debut soon.
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