VW has presented an electric car that is supposed to drive completely autonomously in the city. Passengers can easily get on and off or use the city car for themselves. According to Volkswagen, this is what the future could look like.
Large windows, a display in the door and intuitive controls: On Thursday, VW presented the “OnePod”, an electric car that is not only supposed to drive autonomously, but also comes with a strong touch of futurism in line with the future.
The car manufacturer from Wolfsburg calls it a “vision of the city and traffic planning of tomorrow”. “OnePod” stands for “the idea and self-image of the new concept study from Volkswagen” – “One” means “One Solution for all”. Because the vehicle should be able to be used as its own means of transport, as a public means of transport and for delivery traffic.
VW: Passengers receive information via an integrated display and display
Passengers should be able to get on and off easily. “OnePod” recognizes curbs and sinks the inner floor for easier entry. The vehicle also recognizes a passenger and automatically opens two large swing doors. So people with special needs as well as passengers with strollers should be able to get on without any problems. There should also be space for a bicycle at the rear of the vehicle.
A display in the door and a display in the headliner of the “OnePod” are supposed to provide the passenger with information, whereby the latter can be remotely controlled via a function in the armrests. While the electric car is on the move, external communication takes place by means of signals in light strips that inform other road users and also warn them if necessary.
Autonomous driving is allowed in certain areas in Germany
VW did not say whether and when “OnePod” should be imported into the market. In any case, the legal basis for autonomous driving in Germany exists. At the end of July 2021, the level four autonomous driving law came into force, according to which vehicles without a driver are allowed to drive in specified areas on public roads. Vehicle occupants are allowed to completely surrender control of the vehicle so that the vehicle carries out all driving tasks independently. On certain routes, such as in the multi-storey car park, autonomous driving is also permitted without an occupant. This makes Germany the first country in the world to bring vehicles without a driver from research into everyday life. Autonomous driving should go into regular operation by 2022.
The “OnePod” from VW is unlikely to be ready yet. Initially, interested parties can view the e-vehicle in Drive, Volkswagen’s exhibition building in Berlin, until the end of the year.
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