Automotive supplier Visteon is among many companies that clearly understand the importance of advanced electronics in future automobiles. The firm recently illustrated this with its e-Bee concept car that envisions mobility in the year 2020.

The eBee concept aims to explore new and alternative ways of using a vehicle from private ownership to car sharing and short-term rentals. It’s set up to take advantage of diverse powertrains including electric and hybrid power, using such innovations as an HVAC (heating/ventilation/air conditioning) system integrating smart energy technology to conserve energy. The system includes an electric compressor, interior pre-conditioning to conserve on-board battery power, and a cooled shopping box in the trunk.

The car’s sustainably-designed interior uses bio-based resin, hybrid natural fiber, and recyclable expanded polypropylene materials that address environmental performance and reduce weight.

The real story of the e-Bee is its advanced electronics…and there’s loads of it on board. Its driver interface includes a main display for journey information with two smaller touch screens on either side of the steering wheel, the latter providing vehicle controls and interaction with social connections. A projected head-down display provides driving information. Images from a 180-degree rear-view camera are shown in lieu of a rear view mirror.

Each occupant has a personal headrest-mounted audio system, door-mounted wireless charging bays for their electronics, and door-mounted control modules to adjust individual climate zones. User preferences stored in the Cloud set a driver’s preferences upon entry, defining the look and layout of the car’s displays and interior colors.

Clip-on modules like cup holders, cameras, and wireless charging devices – known as 'physical apps' – can be added by users to fit their needs and style sensibilities as desired.