Incari introduces modern HMIs for classic cars

BERLIN based technology firm Incari has partnered with the Bangalore State School of Design and French company Design 1880 to craft modern human-machine interfaces (HMIs) for electrified classic cars.

As a greater number of retrofitted classics take to the world’s roads, Incari CEO Osman Dumbuya says it’s important that beloved classic and vintage models are kept in step with today’s legal and ecological requirements.

“We and our partners bring together the perfect tools, the know-how and experience to build on the past for a better and more sustainable future,” Mr Dumbuya said.

As an increasing number of collectors, custom garages and backyard constructors look to renew the technology inside classic vehicle bodies, the niche HMI manufacturer says its product is becoming highly sought-after. 

In addition to bespoke systems for older cars, it also produces one-off instrument and control panels for vintage boats and aircraft. Mr Dumbaya said it was possible to retrofit Incari’s HMI and drive technology to any type of vehicle without losing its flair.

The company is already well known for its state-of-the-art electronic systems. For example, the e-Lorean, produced by German-based Wunderkind Invest, has been outfitted with a specially developed electric driveline and bespoke HMI. 

It has also recently completed an electrified classic Fiat 500, of which the digital display is connected to the operator’s smartphone via a “special app”. 

Mr Dumbaya said it was important that the HMI was developed to make you think it was developed in the same period as the car. The casing, motif and even fonts used on the various readouts of the steering-column-mounted screen are all in keeping with the 500’s retro essence.

The circular digital screen provides speed, state of charge, and other “relevant information”. The layout and colour of the display may be further customised by the operator to suit their mood.

“Incari offers a software platform with an intuitive visual user interface to design state-of-the-art HMIs. It enables users who lack programming skills to design complex interfaces in 3D, while simultaneously generating a very clean programming code,” Mr Dumbuya said in a statement. 

“Moreover, Incari provides a common software environment for developers and designers who are already in the prototyping phase. This brings flexibility and saves time.

“The software also takes a 3D-first approach. This offers entirely new possibilities in user comfort – especially in conjunction with augmented reality. 

“The Incari method promises a reduction in development times in the HMI area of up to 70 per cent, as comparative projects have shown, with simultaneously lower personnel requirements and a higher-quality end-user experience,” he concluded.