Rinspeed, the Swiss “idea factory,” is known for its way-out concepts at the Geneva Motor Show and other events, and for next year’s show the company’s focusing on autonomous cars. Specifically, Rinspeed plans to explore the changes to the driving environment that result when the driver no longer has to pay attention to the road. The XchangE concept was teased in sketches and shows a radical rethinking of interior space usage.
Well, maybe not that radical. Motorhome owners will be quite familiar with the XchangE’s swiveling seats that fold down into beds–but of course, this usually happens when the vehicle is parked, not in transit. Rinspeed’s concept uses reclining seats similar to those found on international business-class flights that can be reconfigured for driver and passenger to work or relax while the car takes care of the driving. The steering wheel is a drive-by-wire item that can be moved out of the way when it’s not needed. Web-connected infotainment systems allow XchangE occupants to work, read, play games or watch movies while the car is en route to its destination. The seats can even be turned to form a lounge-style layout, making the car into a cozy sitting room.
Frank M. Rinderknecht, Rinspeed’s boss, says, “So far hardly anyone has taken this to its logical conclusion from the perspective of the driver. After all, traveling in a driverless car will no longer require me to stare at the road, but will let me spend my time in a more meaningful way”
