Rinspeed’s Geneva Autonomous Driving Concept
As
automakers are putting the finishing touches on autonomous vehicle
technology, the Swiss idea factory Rinspeed created a concept placing
the occupants at the center of the driverless car.
“So far hardly anyone has taken this to its logical conclusion from
the perspective of the driver,” said Rinspeed boss Frank M.
Rinderknecht. “After all, traveling in a driverless car will no longer
require me to stare at the road, but will let me spend my time in a more
meaningful way”.
The key question according to Rinspeed is: How does the interior of a
vehicle have to be designed to let the now largely unburdened driver
make optimal use of time?
The Swiss company chose to provide answers through a fully electric
touring sedan concept going by the name of “XchangE” that will be
unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
So far only a few highlights have been revealed; the vehicle features
all-new seats reminiscent of the relaxing business-class seats of major
airlines – with similarly elaborate functionality. And it uses a
completely new operating and display concept with a host of
entertainment, safety and service functions. Rinspeed said this makes it
possible to work or relax in particular comfort while riding in the
driverless car. All passengers can enjoy a wide variety of media or
access in-depth information. And to make sure the steering wheel is not a
hindrance while doing so, it can simply be “parked” in the middle of
the dashboard, courtesy of “steer-by-wire” technology that can also be
found on modern jet aircraft.
Rinspeed said you can read, listen to music, surf the web, play
games, watch movies in brilliant picture and sound quality or hold a
meeting at 70 mph and work on your files. The creators are certain that
autonomous driving will actually make individual travel even more
attractive compared to traveling by train, plane or long-distance coach.
As Rinderknecht puts it, “I am given free time that I can use for
myself anyway I please, while the sensor systems and the computer
chauffeur me safely and reliably to my destination”.
The Rinspeed “XchangE” is the twentieth proprietary concept vehicle of the Swiss “Think Tank” and “Mobility Lab”.