Audi is back again with another autonomous concept called AI:ME. Unlike the Aicon concept that we saw in 2017, the AI:ME has steering wheel and pedals, meaning the car packs level 4 autonomous driving technology.
As with the Aicon, the exterior highlight of the AI:ME are the communicative lights. The LED units at the front and the micro matrix projectors can use symbols to signal pedestrians when the AI:ME is letting them cross the road, for example. The graphics can be projected onto the road or a wall. The matrix projectors can also provide additional safety to other road users with weaker lighting by automatically illuminating their surroundings.
In addition, if a vehicle driving in front indicates danger with hazard warning flashers, the AI:ME can detect this signal and amplify it with projections and LED units on the body.
The AI:ME is smaller too compared to the Aicon. It measures 4.30 metres in length and 1.90 metres in width – a dimensions of a present-day compact car. However, the wheelbase of 2.77 meters and a height of 1.52 meters suggests a spacious interior. Large 23-inch wheels round off the exterior looks.
The interiors have been designed as a “third living space” between home and workplace. There is generous usage of open-pore walnut wood and warm shades of gray for a relaxed environment. The lounge chair-inspired seats are upholstered with a textile material.
In addition, there are real plants to give occupants a feeling of proximity to the nature and also to improve air quality in the car at the same time. A filter technology prevents external odours from entering into the cabin of the AI:ME. Some of the materials used are made of recycled products.
A multifunctional, 3D OLED monitor runs below and along the entire length of the windshield, and features eye-tracking control. Navigation or infotainment can be activated with the eye and then open up further levels too. There are VR goggles on board for the visual output of the infotainment system.
The backrests are designed as curved shells that are attached to the seat cushion only with a vertical holder. When cruising in autonomous mode, drivers can rest their feet on the supports under the dashboard, such as on an ottoman. On the rear bench, occupants can vary their seating position almost any way they like, Audi said.
The steering wheel can be retracted in autonomous mode. An electric motor on the rear axle offers 125 kW or 170 metric hp, powered by a 65 kWh battery pack. The AI:ME has adaptive dampers to ensure ride comfort in the city. The body is a mix of high-tech steel, aluminium, and plastic components.
Clearly, the Audi AI:ME is designed with shared mobility business and subscription service in mind.
Customers who book a vehicle can also have it configured to suit their personal preferences. The color, interiors, and technical options can be pre-configured online with the app or via the driver details stored in the myAudi system. Even the driver’s preferred interior temperature, seating position, and their personal music library are already activated prior getting into the car, Audi said.
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