The GEN.TRAVEL is an innovative prototype that will redefine the mobility of the future for long-distance travel, as forecast by the Volkswagen Group.
The fully electric Innovation Experience Vehicle (IEV) is a real prototype that drives autonomously (level 5) and offers a realistic perspective of what mobility will look like in the next decade. The modular interior concept makes it a flexible and sustainable mobility alternative to short-haul flights.
As a research vehicle, the goal is to test the concept and new features to see customer response. Depending on the results of the study, the individual characteristics may subsequently be carried over to production vehicles.
The vehicle can be driven autonomously, allowing the driver to become a relaxed passenger that you have time to perform other tasks: work, relax, entertain yourself or enjoy time with the family. Klaus Zyciora, Head of Volkswagen Group Design, explains: “GEN-TRAVEL gives us a glimpse of what autonomous driving and travel will look like in the future.
This vehicle epitomizes visionary design for tomorrow’s mobility. The efficient shape of the vehicle characterizes the extremely distinctive design. Thus, in an age of technical perfection and an almost infinite range of possibilities, the motto ‘form is based on function’ becomes ‘form is based on freedom’. The car will not only be better, but also more exciting than ever.”
The model has a unique modular interior concept that can be customized for each trip and can be contracted as a mobility service. Depending on the configuration, the prototype has up to four seats. For when business trips are under way, the conference layout with four comfortable seats and a large table in the center of the interior creates a calm environment. Dynamic lighting allows you to create a pleasant work environment and prevents the risk of motion sickness (dizziness). The overnight configuration allows two seats to be converted into two beds, which can be unfolded to a completely flat position.
The innovative passenger restraint system guarantees maximum safety even when lying down. The lighting system influences the production of melatonin to help passengers to fall asleep and wake up naturally. For family trips, the GEN.TRAVEL with front seats can be set up to entertain the kids using augmented reality (AR). The interior is bright, with a natural design. All elements of the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) are made with sustainable materials, combined with recycled materials or natural products.
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The model in photographs during its presentation
The futuristic exterior of the GEN.TRAVEL is divided into two parts. The transparent glass cabin it is perfectly incorporated into the lower part, which houses all the technical elements of the vehicle. The edge of the window is at waist height, so it sits very low to maximize the view outside. At the same time, when the passengers are lying in the car, they do not receive any external influence. Gull-wing doors make it easy to get in and out of the vehicle.
To offer maximum comfort, it has the active electric ABC (electric Active Body Control) suspension, which allows you to calculate in advance vertical and lateral movements, such as acceleration, braking or cornering, while optimizing the driving style and, consequently, the trajectory. The artificial intelligence (AI) system and platooning, fully autonomous driving in convoys, are used to further increase the vehicle’s autonomy on long-distance trips.