With autonomous vehicles no longer confined to science-fiction novels, Ford challenged design students from London’s Ravensbourne Design College to imagine the future of car interiors.
Of course, in order to design something new, or imagine what the future would look like, you have to think of the current design language used in cars.
So taking inspiration from the all-new Ford Fiesta, Ravensbourne students began illustrating what they believe the interiors of cars are heading towards. So what can we expect in the future?
Flexible Multi-functional Interiors
The Dies Nox Fiesta team envisioned a future where car interior spaces can be transformed to be more functional, but not just that, it would also be flexible in a way that the consumer has control over what they opt for.
To maximise space, the seats are capable of rotating for comfort and at the push of a button, the interface comes alive. A 270 degrees’ centre console serves as a multimedia feature allowing the passengers to play games, listen to music, integrate their smartphones and the driver will have access to a full mapping function.
Besides the multi-functional space, the parts used will also be environmentally friendly as they explore the use of plant-based materials within the leather used (pineapple leather), for example, recycled plastic for 3D printed parts, steam-curved bamboo for structural support and more.
Overall, this is a design that will allow the passengers and even the driver to be comfortable, have an interactive experience in the car and drive a car that is sustainable.
Seats That Transform Into Scooters
This idea from the Iris team was quite interesting. They envisioned a car with seats that will transform into scooters so when you get to your destination, you can simply eject and continue to be mobile.
It would make life easier for the older generation who doesn’t want to be confined or restricted by the way cars are designed now. The seats can easily transform from a seating position to a standing position, making it very versatile.
Health Focused Car Interior
While some of the other ideas are focused on aesthetics, the environment, entertainment and how comfortable the passengers are, this idea from the Nomad team focuses on health.
Using fibre optics and Neurolink concept, the car will be able to help users with Blindness, Alzheimer’s to help them visualise a memory, past experiences or even the world outside. In the case of Alzheimer’s, it would help train brain muscles to remember things better.
Using Aloe Vera sensory technology, the car will be able to monitor body temperature and vital organs to ensure user safety.
The Future Is Definitely Bright For Car Technology
If some of these students were able to come up with functional ideas as such in weeks, I can only imagine what years of R&D would yield for future cars.
Whether it’s aesthetics, driver and passenger experience, panoramic views and health focused ideas, I’m excited about what the future holds.
A young driver insurance brand, Ingenie, also conducted a research which indicated some key changes in the future of automotive, among the key changes for cars, are:
- Active window displays
- Biometric access
- Gesture control
- External airbags
- Engines producing lower emissions
- Advanced materials
- Sensors
- Autonomy
- Versatile interiors
- Omnidirectional wheels
What do you think? Farfetched or possible? Let us know.
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