LA Auto Show 2014 Design Challenge entries explore the future of automobile connectivity, “Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact With Us In 2029?” We have a little over a week and we will know the winners. In the meantime, you can vote online for your choice.
Each entry shows how future technology will transform human-to-machine interfaces that connect with senses. Entries show automotive interiors that will comfortably and safely connect the driver and or passengers to the car by 2029.
The design studios participating in this year’s Design Challenge are Acura, Honda, Infiniti, Peterbilt and Qoros. Several other studios will participate by showcasing their latest future-facing concepts in the Design Gallery,
The 2014 LA Auto Show Design Challenge Entries:
Honda R&D Americas, Inc. (USA) designed a human-to-machine interface concept for Acura that is comprised of an exterior and interior shell, connected through a modular adjustable mesh material that can flex to custom fit a passenger’s preferences. The interior is made out of a fabric-like material that can be changed by by pushing or pulling on the surface. With the help of biometrics and repeated use, the vehicle will be able to learn the user’s preferences, anticipate their needs and have the ability to change its shape.
Honda Advanced Design Tokyo (Japan) presents the CARpet with an interior consisting of two elements, a carpet and a ball. Whether alone or traveling with friends, users can manipulate the car’s interior and make intuitive and natural forms for their ride. The second element, the Honda ball, allows drivers to interact during their autonomous journey. The Honda ball provides users an interface that responds to voice, touch and gesture commands for human-to-vehicle communication. In “active mode,” the driver can use the ball to control the car; the synergy between car and machine emulates that between a rider and their horse.
Infiniti Design San Diego (USA) created afuselage pod that can transform into three vehicle types. It will be used for a triathlon competition, the A.R.C. race (Air, Rally, Circuit). The first stretch of the A.R.C. race is a Formula 1 grand prix course from LA to Las Vegas. The second portion is a desert race, which requires driving an off-road buggy to the Grand Canyon. The final leg of the race is a radical gymkhana-style jet race through virtual pylons back to Los Angeles. The A.R.C. triathlon race will also be the debut of Infiniti’s new futuristic HMI called SYNAPTIQ, a system that will make the driver and machine become one by connecting the SYNAPTIQ S.U.I.T. (Symbiotic User Interface Technology) through spinal lock attachment.
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eterbilt Motors (USA) created SymbiotUX, (pronounced “Symbiotics”), vehicles operating together in truly symbiotic relationships that will, in turn, improve efficiency, safety, wellness and travel enjoyment. . The road pilot will have greater responsibility; therefore, the spaces and interfaces of a vehicle in “pilot mode” will be purpose-driven to enhance pilot capabilities leading to energy efficiency, reduced accidents, traffic and prevent overall wear and tear.
Qoros Design Shanghai (China) will show, Q: Qoros Qloud Qubed, where the vehicle will become an intelligent, multi-dimensional personal management assistant. Q learns from the user over time through the five senses: sight, touch, smell, taste and sound. Q learns the user’s tastes, favorite restaurants, places regularly frequented, music preferences, friends, family, etc.
Design aficionados from the public will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite Design Challenge entry online via LA Auto Show’s website here or the Show’s official Facebook page here. The winner(s) of both honors will be announced and presented with their award(s) before media and industry professionals during the annual Design LA Open House on Thursday, Nov. 20.