As self-driving cars are being pushed by some non-enthusiasts as a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional vehicles, Switzerland-based design house Rinspeed will reveal a concept car at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show that aims to redefine the role of the “driver’s” seat. More specifically, the Rinspeed XchangE concentrates its attention on the occupants of the driverless model.
Since the driver will be reduced to a passenger like any other, Rinspeed believes significant changes must be done in the cabin make optimal use of the time gained by the former driver.
“So far, hardly anyone has taken this to its logical conclusion from the perspective of the driver. 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,” said Rinspeed boss Frank M. Rinderknecht.
The company’s proposal is a fully electric touring sedan called XchangE, which features all-new seats inspired by the relaxing business-class seats of major airlines, with similar sophisticated functionality. The study also uses a completely new operating and display concept with a series of new entertainment, safety and service functions.
According to Rinspeed, these features make it possible to work or relax in particular comfort while riding in the driverless car. A passenger can read, listen to music, surf the web, play games, watch movies or work while the car follows its journey. If it gets in the way, the steering wheel can simply be “parked” in the middle of the dashboard thanks to “steer-by-wire” technology that can also be found on modern jet aircraft.
Rinderknecht believes autonomous driving will actually make individual travel more attractive compared to traveling by train, plane or long-distance coach. “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,” says Rinspeed boss.
What do you say to all this?
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
