Audi has long been showing off its various autonomous mobility solutions. In fact, the German luxury carmaker has not been shy in saying that it has tested more than a few models on public roads. Now, Audi unveils a concept that will take this technology all the way to level 5—or fully autonomous driving capabilities.
Audi just revealed the Aicon Concept at the ongoing Frankfurt International Motor Show. The four-door 2+2 concept is said to be able to drive itself without any need for human intervention. In fact, a quick glance at the cabin reveals that there is no steering wheel or pedals whatsoever.
Yet don’t let this tech fool you into thinking that Audi has completely removed the human being from the equation. On the contrary, Audi gives us PIA, the Aicon’s assistant, which recognizes the owner’s phone and programs everything (such as music, mood lighting, seating position, and the like) to suit one’s desired settings. And the four seats are designed to allow occupants to relax or work while the car takes care of the drive.
Apart from the self-driving tech, Audi has likewise done away with some things that have long been regarded as mainstays in most automobiles. The headlights, for instance, seem to be missing. Audi says that the Aicon is equipped with sensors and radar that can see in the dark. Then there are the B-pillars—or lack thereof. This deliberate omission is designed to help ingress and egress and to streamline the look.
Speaking of looks, the low and wide stance is complemented by huge 26-inch alloys. This is intended to give the car a truly sporty demeanor.
The Audi Aicon will be powered by four electric motors located at each wheel. They give a total system output of 350hp and 550Nm of torque. Thanks to a solid battery and 800-volt system, the Aicon can be topped up in less than an hour.
While all this sounds cool, the Audi Aicon Concept remains just that—a show car in Frankfurt.
