Volvo today released images and specs of a self-driving concept sedan that is a precursor to a “fleet” of 100 automobiles the company said will be cruising the roads of Gothenburg, Sweden, by 2017. Volvo’s new Concept 26, named to reflect the typical everyday commute to work of 26 minutes, integrates a new bucket-style seat design that will come in 3 modes: Drive, Create or Relax.
No Steering Wheel On Volvo’s Concept 26
‘Relax’ mode is a completely reclined seat position, whereas ‘Create’ is more upright, which according to Volvo, enables work and play. Unlike Volvo, Google, which introduced its self-driving car in 2014, stated its automobile will have no steering wheel. Google’s autonomous two-door compact car is currently being examined on Californian roads and is expected to enter into production by 2020.
Tesla Is Developing Autopilot
In regards to Tesla, more than 1 million vehicles have already have integrated an app upgrade to the Model S Autopilot feature, which includes a beta version of Autosteer and Automobile Street Change. Both upgrades are driver assist functions and a driver’s hands ought to remain on the steering wheel.
This is Where Volvo Hopes to Shine
With Volvo’s Concept 26, the steering wheel is fully optional. If drivers choose that they’d like to have control of the car, the steering wheel will roll out and allow them to drive as is customary. If they choose not to, the steering wheel will simply retract, and a display will replace the space where it would go. This will allow drivers to use the time spent driving doing other things, effectively ignoring the stress of the roads completely.
What’ll Happen to the Concept 26 In the Case of A Collision?
Volvo also tackled a debate that has been swirling around the self-driving car market: How will it deal with an accident? Peter Mertens, senior vice president of R&D at Volvo AB responded by saying that Volvo is amongst the very first car makers to deal with the subject of self-driving cars, and the responsibility that comes with them. The company expressed that they strongly believe that car manufacturers should take full responsibility for the actions of the car when it is driving in full self-driving mode, and as the Concept 26 enters production, any and all risks of emergency will be taken very seriously.
