Yanfeng has unveiled its autonomous Experience in Motion 2020 (XiM20) concept car and Smart Cabin vision for the automotive interior of the future for the first time in Europe. Yanfeng’s Smart Cabin capabilities enable the coordination of features into a truly holistic Experience in Motion: information, displays, lighting and interior ambience all react to passengers’ needs, and new forms of interaction bring surprise and delight in the mobility space.
“Approaching this next iteration of the XiM demonstrator, we knew it was critical to evaluate users’ wants and needs within the vehicle and outside of the mobility context,” said Tim Shih, vice president design and user experience, Yanfeng Technology. “The insights gleaned from our research defined what impacts consumers’ quality of life and what creates memorable, engaging experiences. With the XiM20, advanced technologies and product innovations complement intuitive design, providing flexibility and comfort for the autonomous rideshare passengers of tomorrow.”
The XiM20 showcases technology integrations that stimulate the senses without overwhelming passengers with an array of options and features. By camouflaging the demonstrator’s screens and navigation systems within the surfaces of the vehicle using Smart Surface Technologies, passengers can choose whether or not to engage with the innovations around them.
“As an industry leader, we have the capabilities to provide holistic total interior solutions. As we approached this iteration of the XiM, we had to ask ourselves: If we choose to feature every product and technology available within this space, are we offering value? Our research said ‘no’. Instead, to design and develop interiors in this context, we needed to understand and craft experiences that are engaging and surprising, without being overly complex. For future mobility, this is where the opportunity lies,” said Han Hendriks, chief technology officer at Yanfeng Technology.
The XiM20 interior is designed to enable the use of two distinct zones: the bright, airy front of the demonstrator; and the more cocoon-like rear, offering lounge seating and privacy. Controls for the interior environment are accessible on the Smart Interior Surface (SIS) table located at the front of the demonstrator, or can be accessed via a smartphone application.
The front area is an observation space, offering comfortable, functional seating with an uninterrupted 180° view through the curved windshield. In comparison, the rear zone offers secluded comfort where passengers can retreat from the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives. The space mimics the cozy atmosphere of a booth, with a soft fabric surrounding and technology integrations designed to complement passengers’ moods and preferences.