VW’s SEDRIC Active Concept Is Designed For Surfers Who Don’t Like To Drive

Volkswagen has introduced a handful of SEDRIC concepts over the past few years and the company has unveiled the latest version of the autonomous vehicle at CEBIT.

Dubbed the SEDRIC Active, the concept is billed as a new “sports and outdoor model” which has been designed specifically for people with active lifestyles. In an effort to appeal to these types of customers, the SEDRIC Active has been outfitted with a roof rack that can carry windsurfing equipment and surfboards.

Volkswagen went on to say the concept has a “specially designed interior” but declined elaborate. Regardless, the pictures show the model has a wood floor, wood trim and four individual seats. The yellow seats can apparently be folded up to create additional room for any outdoor gear passengers might be carrying.

Like previous SEDRIC concepts, the Active is fully-autonomous and can be controlled at the touch of a button or by using a mobile app. As Volkswagen Group Chief Digital Officer Johann Jungwirth explained “We aim to create mobility solutions that customers use passionately because they are tailored to meet the needs of people – with the highest possible safety levels, the best possible user experience and digital intelligence.”

Besides showcasing the SEDRIC Active concept, Volkswagen revealed a handful of technologies the company is working on. In particular, VW is focused on artificial intelligence and has team of more than 80 specialists working in a lab based in Munich. The team is working on autonomous vehicles and has already implemented “more than 100 AI applications for vehicles, customer services and corporate processes.”

Experts are also exploring the potential of quantum computers and testing blockchain technologies. The latter pilot projects are focused on everything from improving the “transparency and automation of supplier and logistics networks” to allowing vehicles to park and charge themselves as well as perform errands.