Development and Validation of Utility Matrix for Automotive Interiors in Real World Usage

As the real world usage profile of customers is becoming increasingly dynamic the need for more utility features in interior parts of vehicle has increased. The main purpose of the study is to analyze how the changing customer style actually influences the volume requirement of the utility spaces i.e. at the glove box, console door pocket etc. In the present study, an exhaustive list of utilities, and a utility matrix based on the user characteristics for automotive interiors is developed. Based on customer reviews on the web and expert opinions, seven user profiles were defined. The selection matrix is arrived at by using the usability index, accessibility index and the disbursement index. The matrix is evaluated using statistical methods and validated for real world usage. The selection matrix is used to identify relatively important utility features and preferred locations in automotive interior parts.