Date: 4 May 2021
To: Audi Marketing Department
From: Michael Melvin
Subject: Proposal For Feasibility Study
During a recent Usability study of changing a tire on a 2018 Audi S6, it became apparent that there are many downsides to the sill cover. As someone who changes my tires twice a year, I find it frustrating that such an expensive sports car has such a lousy contraption for removing the sill panel. Due to the fact that the sill panel must be removed down and out, I have gained multiple bruises on my knuckles due to scraping my hand and the asphalt below. As the Audi s6 is the mid to premium level of Audi cars, I feel that there should be a much easier way to remove the sill.
In addressing the problem, I have found there to be many solutions. One of which is simply removing the panel altogether. However without the panel, the car would probably lose aerodynamics. Subsequently, no panel would also look cheap and this car is definitely not that.
Another idea for addressing this concern is using a sliding mechanism for the sill held in place by a button. I feel that this idea can keep costs low and make it easier for the person removing the sill panel. With only an outwards motion after pressing the button, the person removing the sill is less likely to scrape hand on the surface the car is laying on.
My final idea is less cost efficient, however, it reflects what a car of this caliber should have. I believe that the entire sill panel should be able to pull out using a hydraulic arm that links with the cars electronic system. I would also be fine if the entire sill moved when a lever is pulled near the lever that opens the car’s hood.
In order to evaluate the best option necessary, I feel that a survey would be sufficient. As someone who has already tested individuals in changing a tire. I am well aware that the sill cover is one of the largest areas that impede a owner from changing their own tire on a 2018 s6. I feel that Greenwich Audi is a great place to get information about peoples feelings towards the sill panel. If I were to interview a bunch of people involved in removing tires every winter and summer, I feel that I could get lots of information on how there is a problem and how it could be fixed in the future.
I am committed to giving your company the utmost attention in these next coming weeks and will let you know the information that I am able to get through my feasibility report. If you find this interesting let me know how you can help and I will work you into my schedule.
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