Though automakers are trying to fill every niche in their quest for greater sales, they understand that consumers expect their cars to have the fundamental attributes of style, practicality, and safety. Recent concept-vehicle interiors have provided glimpses into how manufacturers may meet these expectations by providing new applications of materials, improved safety and functionality via electronics, and greater versatility through more practical body configurations and interior solutions.

Traditional materials such as wood, leather, suede, aluminum, and chrome are being used more liberally to distinguish products. In addition, materials that have been used sparingly in the past are gaining greater acceptance and new material applications are being developed to provide improved functionality. Mercedes-Benz borrowed an idea from racing in using lightweight, one-piece, carbon-fiber casings for the seats of its Vision SLR. Pontiac's Aztek features Delphi technology that uses thin acrylic sheet to channel light to the primary display graphics. The Lear seats of the Oldsmobile Recon use a lightweight foam material that does not fade or scratch and is hypo-allergenic.

Many recent concept vehicles boast integrated information and entertainment (infotainment) technologies. Cadillac's future vision, the Evoq, includes a demonstration of wireless communications, computing functions, navigation, and voice activation from Delphi Delco Electronics. Mercedes-Benz's COMMAND IP module integrates displays for radio, CD player, and TV into a single color screen. Personal information can be loaded into the Oldsmobile Recon by a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). A mouse-like ball in Mercury's (my) functions as the control for the radio, climate control, and global positioning system.

Automakers are also looking for ways to improve the versatility of vehicles. Renault designed its Avantime concept coupe with a unique shape to provide a spacious interior with room for four. Access is by two large "hinge and swing" doors. Chrysler's hybrid Citadel has moving B-pillars for improved access to the interior. Opel's Concept A microvan can easily be converted from a four-seater to a roomy transporter, with seats that can be folded away to provide a completely flat cargo area. Supplier Lear Corp. introduced an array of features to make vehicles more accommodating for maturing baby boomers, including swiveling front seats and repositionable pedals and instrument pod.

• Avantine coupe packs room, French style
• Chrysler Citadel has "handmade" touches
• Communiporting with Cadillac
• Materials showcased in Vision SLR
• Versatile (my) controlled by mouse
• Pontiac Aztek uses Delphi display technology
• Infotainment Reconnaissance
• Opel "convertible" Concept A
• Lear's TransG for maturing baby boomers