Audi's Grandsphere Concept takes self-driving luxury to a whole new level, serving as a vision for a future where the driver's role diminishes significantly. Picture this: a vehicle that foregoes the thrill of conventional driving, focusing instead on comfort and luxury available in abundance.
Recently, Audi revealed the Skysphere Concept, which embodies a sporty car you can actually drive yourself. The Grandsphere concept, on the other hand, is designed to be a luxury vehicle with an autonomous driving mode where steering wheel and pedals can be tucked away into the dashboard.
As you relax in the plush VIP-like backseat—equipped with first-class seats, drink holders, and refrigerators—you’ll find no shortage of entertainment options. However, the front seat is fitted for actual driving, albeit less appealing due to the absence of the real action.
As you make the transition to autonomous driving mode, the steering wheel and pedals neatly fold away, leaving the front seat to transform into a lounge area. The back seats can then slide back and incline, providing ample room for the front passengers to stretch their legs.
Having limited rear space and a minimalistic interior, the Grandsphere's main focus is the optimal comfort of the front seats. This design choice also allows the vehicle to adopt an elegant coupe-like shape, even though it boasts a four-door build.
Passengers in the back are still provided with various entertainment options, such as the console between the seats, a drink cooler, and a cup holder.
The armrest is adorned with light wood and features a digital display when the vehicle is driven manually. In an autonomous setting, the digital information is projected directly onto the display, allowing the front and back passengers to enjoy visual entertainment if desired. Meanwhile, the rear passengers offer an eye-catching twist with lush potted plants sitting behind the front seats.
In the same decade, Audi aims to bring out a similar electric vehicle, offering a self-driving experience. The Grandsphere is propelled by an electric motor that powers the front wheels, while another motor engages the rear wheels, resulting in an all-wheel-drive layout. Since no space is required for an engine or transmission, the interior space is extended to the front very efficiently.
To enable true autonomous driving, not only advanced technology but also legal adjustments are necessary. These adjustments will ensure that the steering wheel and pedals remain out of reach for the driver, allowing the vehicle to navigate the streets autonomously.
In conclusion, while the Grandsphere concept explores a self-driving luxury future, the entire automotive industry will have to evolve to accommodate this shift. Manufacturing processes will become highly automated, and marketing strategies will need to place greater emphasis on technology, convenience, and safety features. The traditional automobile industry might be poised for a radical transformation, placing comfort and luxury at the center of their offerings.
