Photos by John Grafman
The Acura Precision Concept is one of the featured models at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. Developed by the Acura Design Studio in California as a dynamic expression of Acura’s ‘Precision Crafted Performance’ brand DNA, the Acura Precision Concept – with its supercar-like stance, performance-minded proportions and alluring design details – points the way toward a bolder, more distinctive future for Acura design. The Acura Precision Concept also showcases the Acura’s new diamond pentagon grille, which was rapidly applied to the redesigned 2017 Acura MDX.
Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager of the Acura Division, admits, “More than a concept, the Acura Precision Concept is the blueprint for Acura’s future styling direction and manifests our commitment to delivering Precision Crafted Performance in every element of the Acura experience.”
The Acura Precision Concept’s crouched and athletic stance is further emphasized by its deeply sculpted side surfaces pouring over swelling rear wheel arches covering 22-inch wheels and tires. The forward-looking concept also features signature lighting designs – in front with its Jewel Constellation LED headlights composed of organically arranged fractal elements, and in back with floating LED taillights.
A key design theme, dubbed “quantum continuum,” is seen in the seamless transition of materials and structure from the exterior to the interior of the vehicle, which is further highlighted by the absence of a b-pillar. The large door rocker panel flows into the interior side sill, transitioning into a cantilever for the floating rear seats. The rear center high-mounted stoplight becomes an architecture element piercing the rear glass and then flowing down to help form the structure for the metal airfoil shape of the rear headrests.
The elegant and powerful exterior is matched by its dramatic interior design, where cantilevered surfaces meet with striking tones, expressive surfacing and modern detailing. Of particular note are the double-layered instrument panel, the high-contrast front seat surfaces, the ultra-thin “floating” rear seats, evoking the look of modern lounge furniture, and the hand-crafted audio speaker grilles made of exotic wood.
The driver’s space is highlighted by a compact, race-inspired, sports steering wheel with paddle shifters and Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) controls, a floating center meter, a driver’s head-up display, a cantilevered center stack and an ultra-wide, thin and curved center display screen.
New Acura HMI Concept
The Acura Precision Concept also explores a new approach for Acura’s digital human-machine interface (HMI), enabling a more intuitive, advanced and seamless connection between man and machine. The ultra-wide and curved center screen is operated by a floating touch pad suspended on the cantilevered center stack. Upon entry, the system scans each occupant and selects personalized features and functions, including maps, audio and customized vehicle performance settings.
About the Acura Precision Concept
The Acura Precision Concept was created to explore new and challenging ideas for future Acura design, particularly Acura sedans. The concept was created by Acura’s California Design Studio under the direction of Acura Executive Creative Director, Dave Marek. The exterior design was led by Michelle Christensen, principal exterior designer, with the interior design created under the leadership of John Norman, principal interior designer. Both Christensen and Norman also played a key role in the creation of the next-generation Acura NSX supercar.
Related Images:
