Development of HMI and Telematics Systems for a Reliable and Attractive Electric Vehicle

This paper describes the HMI, navigation and telematics systems developed specifically for the Nissan LEAF electric vehicle to dispel drivers' anxieties about operating an EV. Drivers of EVs will need to understand various new kinds of information about the vehicle's operational status that differ from conventional gasoline-engine vehicles. Additionally, owing to the current driving range of EVs and limited availability of charging stations, drivers will want to know acccurate the remaining driving range, amount of power and the latest information about charging station locations. It will also be important to ensure that people unfamiliar with EVs will be able to operate them easily as rental cars or in car-sharing systems without experiencing any inconvenience. These needs have been met in the Nissan LEAF mainly by prioritizing displayed information, adopting a combination main meter-navigation system display and providing a two-way communication capability along with real-time information.