Land Rover's Discovery Vision Concept, for debut at the New York Auto Show, doesn't have door handles. Instead, you wave at it to open the doors, writes Brian Byrne.
The gesture idea, which has already appeared on Volkswagen's touchscreen systems and is coming to a computer near you in the soon future, is also a further advance on the 'kick' gesture which some Ford Kuga owners can use to open their car's tailgate.
The Discovery Vision Concept also charts a new direction in visual terms for Land Rover's large SUV, with much more 21st century looks which will upstream its presence whether roughing it overland or driving up to a city hall diplomatic reception.
The interior has a lot of innovative ideas, not least the option of configuring it from 7-seat to 4-seat 'Limousine' mode, with 5- and 6-seat options in between.
Technology includes laser headlamps and 'smart glass' which provides virtual imagery on an otherwise clear windscreen, changing the whole idea of where instruments and information should be placed.
From next year, the Discovery nameplate will include the replacement for the Freelander in the beginning of a strategy which will provide three distinct brands in Defender, Discovery and Range Rover.
