10.04.2025
In our short series "Three questions for...", we interview selected personalities on various topics. Among other things, the questions address topics that are discussed by the interviewees in the form of keynote speeches or other activities at Bayern Innovativ events.
Today we are giving our short interview to Lars Ellermann, Development ASSY Seat Systems/Comfort/Hang-On Parts, AUDI AG.
Lars Ellermann is one of the speakers at our conference "Interieur im Automobil x InSuM" from 13 - 14.05.2025 in Ingolstadt.
Lars, what inspired you personally to focus on your presentation topic in the field of automotive interiors?
Lars Ellermann: The development of autonomous driving fascinates me deeply, as it will revolutionize the design of vehicle interiors like nothing else in recent decades. There are a number of development directions that need to be reconciled. For example, customer demands for entertainment, relaxation or more interaction options with passengers are increasing. This is a challenge for us developers because we have to combine these requirements with safety issues and technical constraints. This complex task motivates me to find and implement innovative solutions to shape the driving experience of the future.
What central challenge do you currently see in the design of vehicle interiors, and how can your experience contribute to solving it?
Lars Ellermann: As a pre-developer, I am always on the lookout for new technologies and concepts for innovative interiors. It is important to get a feeling at an early stage as to whether a new system will be successful or not. To do this, we quickly build prototypes or carry out studies in order to be able to make valid decisions.
There is no shortage of challenges. Autonomous driving, electromobility and the requirements of the various markets and customer wishes make us rethink existing concepts and find creative ways to implement them.
How do you think vehicle interiors will change in the next five to ten years, and what role will your topic play in this?
Lars Ellermann: I believe that the topic of autonomous driving will become more and more important and that the requirements for the interior will have to be continuously adapted. But the areas of connectivity, entertainment and comfort will also significantly change the interior. The key question is: what specific customer expectations will arise and which technical innovations will prevail? A user-centric development approach is essential here in order to identify potential and overcome challenges, allowing us to steer the various development directions in a targeted manner and shape the vehicle interiors of the next generation.
