In an exclusive interview series exploring Audi’s iconic philosophy of “Vorsprung durch Technik” (progress through technology), we delve into the mind of Christoph Häußinger, the creative force revolutionizing automotive lighting design. As the mastermind behind the groundbreaking lighting systems for Audi’s new all-electric A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron, Häußinger represents the cutting edge of automotive innovation.
The Man Behind the Innovation
Christoph Häußinger serves as a lighting designer at Audi, where his responsibilities extend far beyond traditional automotive illumination. His role encompasses creating both front and rear exterior light designs that define the character and personality of Audi’s electric vehicle lineup. The complexity of his work involves multiple phases, from initial concept to final implementation.
The Design Process Unveiled
The journey begins with creating the overall light graphic – a process similar to graphic design where visual aesthetics meet functional requirements. Häußinger then focuses on establishing the right character for each vehicle, whether it’s sporty, sleek, or sophisticated. The process continues with material selection and hardware integration, culminating in the most exciting aspect: welcome scenarios and animations.
For the A6 e-tron specifically, Häußinger pioneered digitalisation elements that represent something entirely new in automotive lighting. These animated sequences create personalized welcome experiences, transforming how drivers interact with their vehicles from the moment they approach.
Personal Philosophy: Never Stop Exploring
When asked about his interpretation of “Vorsprung durch Technik,” Häußinger’s response reveals his innovative mindset: “Never stop exploring. It’s about being curious and always questioning what’s next.” This philosophy drives his continuous pursuit of lighting solutions that push boundaries and challenge conventional automotive design.
Drawing Inspiration from Unexpected Sources
Häußinger’s creative process draws inspiration from diverse sources, primarily high-quality product design. He meticulously studies premium products, seeking solutions that can be adapted and integrated into automotive applications. However, his most fascinating inspiration comes from an unexpected source: faces.
The Human Connection
“I’m inspired by faces of people and animals,” Häußinger explains. “Humans are always looking for faces. If you’re looking somewhere, you always see faces. And this is the same with cars.” This insight reveals how lighting design creates emotional connections between drivers and their vehicles, making cars feel more alive and personable.
The Importance of Lighting Design
Lighting design plays a crucial role in modern automotive development, extending beyond mere functionality to encompass brand identity, safety, and user experience. Häußinger’s work on the A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron demonstrates how lighting can transform electric vehicles into distinctive, recognizable products that stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
The integration of digital elements and animation sequences represents a significant leap forward, offering personalization opportunities that were previously impossible with traditional lighting systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes Audi’s new lighting design different from competitors?
A: Audi’s new lighting features welcome scenarios and animations, creating personalized digital experiences that transform how drivers interact with their vehicles.
Q: How does Christoph Häußinger approach lighting design?
A: He starts with overall light graphics, establishes vehicle character, selects materials and hardware, then focuses on digital animations and welcome scenarios.
Q: What inspires Audi’s lighting designer?
A: Häußinger draws inspiration from high-quality product design and human/animal faces, believing that people naturally seek facial recognition in cars.
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