Volkswagen GEN.TRAVEL concept gives outlook for mobility of the coming decade

As a research vehicle, the purpose of the Gen.Travel is to test the concept and new functionalities for customer response. Based on the study results, individual features may later be transferred to series vehicles.

The futuristic exterior of the Volkswagen GEN.TRAVEL is divided into two parts: The transparent, glass cabin is incorporated into the lower section, which houses all the technical features. The edge of the window is at waist level, making it very low so as to maximize the view of the outside. At the same time, when passengers are lying down flat in the car, they do not experience any external influences. The wing doors of the GEN.TRAVEL facilitate better entry and exit.

Modular interior can be customized for each journey and booked as a Mobility-as-a-Service offering. Depending on the configuration, up to four people can be transported in the concept vehicle. For business trips, the conference setup with four comfortable seats and a large table in the middle of the interior provides relaxed surroundings. Dynamic lighting creates a pleasant working environment and avoids the danger of kinetosis (motion sickness). A configuration in the overnight-setup allows the conversion of two seats into two beds that can be folded out to a full-flat position.

The makers of this product guarantee maximum safety for passengers by implementing an innovative restraint system that works even when lying down. The GEN.TRAVEL lighting system influences melatonin production to help passengers fall asleep and wake up naturally. For family trips, the GEN.TRAVEL with front seats can be configured to entertain the children using augmented reality (AR). The interior is light, with a natural design. All HMI (human-machine interface) elements are produced using sustainable materials, combined with recycled or natural materials.

For maximum comfort, the GEN.TRAVEL has the active suspension eABC (electric Active Body Control) that calculates vertical and lateral movements such as acceleration, braking, or cornering ahead of time, and optimizes the driving style and trajectory accordingly. Artificial intelligence (AI) and platooning - fully autonomous driving in convoys - are used to further increase the range for long-distance journeys.

"With GEN.TRAVEL, we can already experience today what will be possible in the near future with innovative technology. Door-to-door travel at a new level. Emission-free and stress-free" says Dr. Nikolai Ardey, Head of Volkswagen Group Innovation.

On September 24, the concept will be presented in public for the first time at Chantilly Arts & Elegance near Paris.

Source: Volkswagen