This period of national lockdown and social isolation has been a critical action in our country's campaign to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic.

It has had solid benefits in slowing transmission of the disease, but also unanticipated benefits as we begin to muse on our personal and professional lives, and what we've previously taken for granted.

'Appreciating the enjoyment of driving'

As an automotive person, or, basically, a lover of cars, for me, this has meant a thorough reappraisal of the true freedom that mobility offers. In the past, we may not have given it much thought, but there is nothing like the past few weeks or a dose of reality to help you appreciate the enjoyment of driving, road trips, and the open road.

Sitting at home gets you longing for some of the experiences that only driving can provide. These include a coastal road trip, a Sunday afternoon drive, and quality time in your car with just your thoughts and the music that you love.

These are all expressions of freedom, joys we must savour and appreciate when we get to experience them again.

Audi RS 7. Image: NewsPress

Recapture the thrills

In trying to recapture some of the driving thrills that I've been fortunate enough to enjoy, I found myself exploring an innovative film production that caters directly to car enthusiasts like myself, fondly longing for a long road trip in a luxury sedan. 

The film is a four-hour slow movie of a road trip through the Central Australian countryside created by my colleagues at Audi Australia. Titled The Drive, it is mostly filmed from inside the cabin of the newly-launched Audi A6, with the driver's perspective of the winding roads, forested lanes and mountain passes of the area.

All set against a unique soundtrack that aims to capture your attention and take you to "another world."

Pleasure of the open road

The soothing music, the beauty of the passing countryside, and the sense of almost being able to feel the acceleration and comfort of the new Audi A6 Sedan add to an almost meditative effect. It all combines to create a powerful approximation and appreciation of a driving experience and the freedom of mobility.

The slow movie is part of a trend towards longer-form film making to express experiences and moods instead of just sharing information or entertainment.

This Audi innovation is a digital concept that allows customers to experience the pleasure of the open road from the confines of their home, and to offer Audi fans some tranquility and joy during these uncertain times.

The meditative quality of The Drive reminds us of the calm and comfort that a long drive can bring. It's also an apt example of how innovation and progress don't need to stop.

Audi has managed to reach out and connect with consumers, despite the limitations of lockdowns and social distancing and to tap into a need for a calming, zen experience in this current climate.

- Trevor Hill is the Head of Audi South Africa -

Audi RS 7. Image: NewsPress