The development effort was a collaboration between Volkswagen teams in China and Europe. Andreas Mindt, the chief designer, described the vehicle as combining "the elegant and powerful dynamism of a Gran Turismo." Despite limited details on its connection to the existing ID range, the design includes heritage cues such as D-Pillars inspired by the original Golf and sculpted fenders like those introduced in last year's ID.2all concept.
A system called "3D Eyes" watches you as you approach. It's part of a comprehensive, interactive lighting system that VW envisions as part of an autonomous future. The long white strip on the nose between the headlights is called the Light Cloud, and it consists of 967 LEDs that, among other things, can create U-shaped "eyes" that give the appearance of looking in different directions.
It works in conjunction with the Light Screen, which is harder to see. That's because it's the smiling part of the front end below the Light Cloud, where you'd expect to see a grille. VW uses a transparent paint that looks like a normal part of the car when the Light Screen is off. When it is on, it can display everything from weather reports to seasonal images like cherry blossoms in the spring. If another car stops to let you turn left, the screen can display a big old heart as a token of gratitude.
VW ID. Code
VW also gives the ID.Code something called Smart Windows. These windows can display a human-looking avatar in spots on the glass that can strike up a conversation as you approach. So to sum up, we have digital eyes and emoticons that appear on the front, and a floating human head on the side windows that might remind you to wear sunscreen.
The company says it's really about bringing human-like companionship and communication to an AI-filled future. That communication isn't limited to the car's owner, either. A bevy of cameras and sensors give the ID.Code Level 4 autonomous functionality, so these so-called eyes and external screens can also facilitate more vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.
Inside, the SUV's interior transforms into what is called a "mobile living space" inspired by private jets. It includes full-width dashboard displays and other high-tech features for autonomous driving mode like a retractable steering wheel and rotating seats that also have a sleeping position option. The interior uses only animal-free materials and integrates smart ambient lighting and climate controls similar to those found in luxury aircraft.
This is a concept vehicle for the time being. There is no mention of powertrain, range, or any mechanical aspects. There is also no mention of possible production plans, though VW is adamant about the ID.Code pointing towards the company's future in China. It is unclear whether features like 3D Eyes or human avatars will be introduced in other markets. We will have to wait and see what the future holds.
Source: Volkswagen
