Car News

Czech brand Skoda has become the latest manufacturer to offer a Siri-like intelligent in-car assistant, launching a new "Hey, Laura" function for the Kamiq crossover and Scala small car. The online-based voice control system understands natural speech in six languages, according to the Volkswagen Group subsidiary, and forms part of the 'Amundsen' infotainment system that's available for the Kamiq and Scala.

Williams Advanced Engineering has revealed a new battery module it claims is lighter but more power-dense than conventional lithium-ion units. Autocar reports the new lithium-ion battery module uses Adaptive Multi-Chem technology that could make battery packs up to 30 per cent lighter and 37 per cent more energy dense. This could deliver longer range and higher power without making the battery packs any physically larger.

Skoda has officially launched its latest infotainment software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, debuting in the all-new Kamiq crossover and related Scala hatchback. Dubbed 'Wireless Smart Link', the feature "makes for even more convenient use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto" by allowing compatible smartphones to use the mirroring features through a bluetooth connection, rather than a USB cable.

Bosch is working on new digital dashboard technology that could make three-dimensional displays a reality in your next car. The idea behind three-dimensional dashboards is rooted in safety. Drivers are bombarded with information in modern cars as screens take over from simpler analogue dials, with making it harder to discern what's important and what's just background noise.

There is no shortage of Chinese EV startups to keep us amused with unlikely concepts and far-off products. Your first instinct on seeing pictures of the Human Horizons HiPhi 1 is probably to regard it as one of the ones less likely to make production, and fair enough; this is a vast electric SUV with gullwing flaps in the roof above its rear doors. (Sound familiar, though?)