Dubbed "a luxury coupe that turns into a pickup" by the company, the Activesphere is packed with technology and ideas that are likely years away from becoming a reality. However, it offers a glimpse into what the future of high-tech vehicles may hold.
The Activesphere boasts a unique design, blending elements of the Sportback and Allroad models to create a versatile SUV-like EV. The concept vehicle features Audi's air suspension with adaptive dampers, which can increase the base ground clearance of 8.1 inches (208 millimeters) by an additional 1.57 inches (40 mm). This is accompanied by a design feature on the exterior that deploys vertical studs and metal strips to visually enhance the added height.
The 22-inch wheels are not only impressive in size, but also functional. When the vehicle is in off-road mode, flaps in the wheels open for optimum ventilation. During on-road driving, the flaps close to maximize aerodynamics. The use of glass is prominent in the Activesphere, featuring a glass roof, glass in the lower doors, and a glass grille that gives passengers an unobstructed view of the outside through the frunk.
The rear glass window is also functional, capable of moving flush with the roof to create a cargo bed that can carry e-bikes. A portion of the rear fascia lowers to create the tailgate, making it even more accessible. A motorized bulkhead deploys when using the cargo bed to separate the interior from the elements.
The sparse four-seat cabin is designed for passengers. When the car is in autonomous mode, the dashboard, steering wheel, and pedals disappear, but the large sound bar and full-width air vent remain functional. The seats appear to float in the cabin, attached to the center console that features heating and cooling capabilities while lacking your traditional screens and controls.
One of the concept's key features is the augmented reality headsets available for drivers and passengers. These allow Audi to superimpose virtual content, such as vehicle control panels and information displays, on top of the real world and the cabin. This frees up interior space that was once reserved for screens and controls. The system can also deliver tailored content to each passenger, giving the driver important vehicle information while passengers select music and other digital features.
The Activesphere was built on the Premium Platform Electric architecture that Audi jointly developed with Porsche. This architecture underpins various vehicles and allows the Activesphere to have around 100 kilowatts of energy in its battery pack. A dual-motor powertrain setup provides the concept with 242 horsepower (325 kilowatts) and 531 pound-feet (720 Newton-meters) of torque, as well as all-wheel drive.
Source: Audi