Rinspeed comes up with it's latest concept, the Urban Runabout, or Oasis as they call it.

Rinspeed presents the clever urban “Oasis” runabout at the CES in Las Vegas and the NAIAS in Detroit in January 2017

Garden plot on wheels for the urban jungle

You can count on Swiss automotive visionary Frank M. Rinderknecht when it comes to reimagining mobility. With the Rinspeed concept vehicle “Oasis,” the ingenious self-driving electric vehicle for the city and surrounding areas, he refutes the deeply ingrained notion of the urban jungle that requires SUVs the size of battle tanks for the daily struggle for survival. 

His alternative concept: a maneuverable speedster with an integrated small garden plot behind the windshield.

The Rinspeed boss therefore challenges the martial appearance with mobile urban gardening. 

With its large glazed areas and shrouds on the front wheels, the refined and swift two-seat runabout looks rather futuristic and is somewhat reminiscent of a modern interpretation of famous Star Wars icon R2D2. 

They both can turn on their wheels with almost a zero radius. In the case of the “Oasis,” thanks to a special steering angle, two in-wheel electric motors and torque vectoring, all developed by ZF on Lake Constance.

The self-driving Swiss vehicle is not a wallflower or strictly functional like the Google Car, but rather “next gen” - with a host of technical and visual treats inside. Because in keeping with a great tradition, the twenty-third Rinspeed concept car was again engineered by Swiss company 4erC and executed by Esoro.

Speaking of inside: The ultimate eye-catcher is the small garden with enough space for growing radishes or even little Bonsai trees. Automotive supplier Kostal adds the element of nature to the car to make it a true third space. “Home+Garden” becomes “Car+Garden” - brought together by a custom removable planter.

The small garden plot is just one of features that creates a new living space in the interior of the car. Armchairs, sideboard and TV provide a modern living room ambience in white. Everything looks welcoming and inviting, thanks to the efforts of the innovative Swabian textile developers at Strähle+Hess, and Dutch company Stahl, the world market leader in leather and synthetic surfaces in automotive interiors. Together, they created a remarkable ensemble of natural, functional leather with various designs and surfaces complemented by textiles with bright edging highlights. For this purpose, Schoeller Spinning Group supplied an all-new highly elastic wool yarn. Also worthy of note are the elegant aluminum seat bases from GF Automotive in bionic lightweight design, the futuristic retractable air vents, and the multi-purpose storage box from Dr. Schneider Unternehmensgruppe. The floor is made from real wood, and created by the specialists from MeisterWerke. All adhesive bonds in and on the “Oasis” are realized with innovative adhesives from Sika Automotive.

Always a step ahead: In the “Oasis,” the journey becomes the destination

An eerie quiet around the football arena, but the activities on Twitter show: Injury time is almost up and tens of thousands of fans will soon flood the streets. The Rinspeed “Oasis” is equipped with Harman LIVS technologies (Life-Enhancing Intelligent Vehicle Solutions), which put it always a step ahead, and its finger on the pulse of the social web - the “Oasis” has long since planned the alternative route.

The “Oasis” lets its driver know that several Facebook friends with similar tastes have recently liked a new restaurant that just opened nearby. A quick ‘Ok’ signaled to the personal assistant of the “Oasis,” and the table has been reserved. That fast.

To interact with the Harman system, the occupants use a slightly curved 5K widescreen display with voice- or gesture-control that spans the width of the “Oasis” in front of its passengers. In manual mode, it presents the most important information in condensed form. The images of the electronic rearview mirrors are dimmed when not needed.

The steering wheel from ZF folds flat and thus turns into a keyboard or work surface. The car thus becomes a self-driving office on wheels, complete with Office productivity software and Skype video telephony with live translation. The personal assistant not only knows which of the occupants is talking to it at the time, but also in what language the occupant speaks. The “Oasis” passengers are able to exchange and share interesting news on social media channels by using swiping gestures. In keeping with a ten-year tradition, a mechanical Carl F. Bucherer watch is integrated on the steering column. What is more: On the “Oasis,” the new Manero Flyback is rewound by the steering motions.

The next business trip begs. After dropping its owner off at the airport, the “Oasis” chauffeurs a nice couple who had searched for a ride on Facebook into the city. After dropping them off at their destination, the “Oasis” goes on Twitter to let the owners’ friends know that it is available for use at any time. They are able to summon it via WhatsApp and other social media apps. Two days later, the “Oasis” returns to the arrivals terminal of the airport, thanks to Harman LIVS punctual to the minute and unperturbed by potential flight delays, traffic jams and long lines at the baggage claim.

Curtains up for the evening entertainment with viewing enjoyment in CinemaScope, accompanied by the Harman Kardon 24-channel sound that virtually follows the passenger as the seat glides into the fully reclined position. The personal assistant takes a photo of the stunning sunset in passing - the “Oasis” keeps a diary and if desired also acts as a travel blogger to keep the Instagram followers up to date.

Feeling like taking back the wheel? Gladly - after passing an automatically administered fitness and alertness test.

By the way, the personal assistant is also at the driver’s disposal outside the car. Thanks to a link to the Harman Cloud Platform, it allows controlling the owner’s smart home from the “Oasis,” for example. Always a step ahead, it takes care of the lights and the wellness climate as the situation demands. BlackBerry QNX supplies an integrated and certified secure and protected software platform for self-driving vehicles.

The windscreen serves as a giant display for virtual and augmented realities. Holographic laser projection technology developed by WayRay allowed to make area covered by displays significantly larger than in conventional head-up display used today. US Company Techniplas, a specialist for cognitive and networked products, developed the multi-functional rear window. It integrates not only the usual lights at the back of a car; it also serves as a display panel for the integrated clever micro delivery box. It can even be cooled or heated as needed. As a special touch, the box was sized to fit a power bank form EVA Fahrzeugtechnik, which increases the range of the “Oasis” when circumstances demand.

When it comes to automotive lighting, Rinspeed relies on proven Osram quality. The manufacturer supplies the powerful LED headlights and the two projectors in the front surround. The LED ambience lighting with reading lights integrated into the headliner comes from Forster Rohner.

The who’s who in the use of the vehicle

Who will own the car, who will operate it and what will it be used for? Rinspeed boss Rinderknecht has designed and equipped the car to keep all conceivable options open - if society is willing to share goods in a beneficial way. “Oasis” can be a shopping cart in the morning, a shipping services counter for a parcel service in the afternoon, and a pizza delivery vehicle at night. A digital access system from German supplier Huf makes it possible.

Apart from consulting firm EY, which contributed a study on the individualization of mobility, the masterminds behind the “Oasis” also include TOG-Tübitak. The Turkish research center - an institution not unlike the German Fraunhofer Institute - examines issues of tomorrow’s transport in its own mobility lab.

However, even the “Oasis” does need a dash of masculinity: Futuristic 20-inch Borbet Aero Design rims with laser-engraved “Oasis” logo underscore the vehicle dynamics.

Transmitting large volumes of data and information requires perfect connections and consequently is of fundamental importance for autonomous driving in particular. The intelligent antenna systems from Vites integrated into the roof play a crucial role in this regard.

Intelligent traffic management solutions from Siemens help optimize the traffic flow and thereby are a factor in providing more comfort in traveling, minimizing emissions, and enhancing the safety of all road users – for example, by warning road users of an approaching emergency vehicle. The “Oasis” uses different sensors based on NXP technology to capture a 360-degree view of its surroundings with pinpoint precision. Thanks to vehicle-to-vehicle communication, it can even look around corners and obstacles. This sensor fusion is then used to compute the safe driving maneuver.

An innovative app from MHP allows choosing potential passengers by interest or profession. For passionate car enthusiasts who just met, this can make the long drive to the vintage car event a sheer pleasure. The “Mini Mica” from connectivity specialist Harting is a scalable and flexible computing architecture, which uses different modules for adapting the “Oasis” to the particular requirements of the vehicle user, and installs the corresponding technology features. This makes an individualization of the “Oasis fleet” with efficient use of resources possible. The secure transmission of data and information was tested and certified by independent and impartial certification specialist Dekra. Axa Winterthur provides insurance and peace of mind if the unthinkable happens.

Urban gardening on wheels as a new trend? A little bit out there? Maybe. But as always, the creation of Swiss mobility innovator Frank M. Rinderknecht is an oasis for inspiration in the otherwise rather expansive automotive wasteland. On display at the CES in Las Vegas and the NAIAS in Detroit in January 2017, and in spring 2017 - in a manner of speaking, in the Swiss national own front garden - at the Geneva Motor Show. As always, put in the best light by Vollmond Advertising Agency from Saarland, Germany.

The „Oasis“ will be exhibited at the CES Las Vegas in the Hard Rock Hotel inthe Harman Venue from January 4^th thru 7^th, 2017 and from January 9^th thru22^nd, 2017 at the NAIAS in Detroit in the ZF booth. 

The partners and suppliers in the realization of the „Oasis“ are:

4erC GmbH - www.4erc.ch

AXA Winterthur Versicherungen - www.axa-winterthur.ch

Borbet GmbH - www.borbet.de

Carl F. Bucherer - www.carl-f-bucherer.com

Dekra Automobil GmbH - www.dekra.com

Dr. Schneider Unternehmensgruppe - www.dr-schneider.com

Esoro AG - www.esoro.ch

EVA Fahrzeugtechnik GmbH - www.evafahrzeugtechnik.de

Ernst & Young GmbH Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft - www.de.ey.com/automotive

GF Automotive - www.gfau.com

Harman International, Inc. - www.harman.com

Harting KGaA - www.harting.com

Huf Group - www.huf-group.com

Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG - www.kostal.com

MHP - A Porsche Company - www.mhp.com

NXP Semiconductors - http://bit.ly/2cdLqlW

Osram - www.osram.com

QNX Software Systems GmbH - www.qnx.com

Schoeller GmbH & CoKG - www.schoeller-wool.com

Siemens AG - Mobility Division - Intelligent Traffic Systems - www.siemens.com/traffic

Sika Automotive AG - www.sikaautomotive.com

Stahl Holdings BV - www.stahl.com

Strähle+Hess GmbH - www.straehle-hess.de

Techniplas - www.techniplas.com

Turkish Automobile Development Center - www.tog.gov.tr

Vites GmbH - www.vites.de

Vollmond Werbeagentur - www.agentur-vollmond.de

WayRay - wayray.com/navion

ZF Friedrichshafen AG - www.zf.com

Geneva Motor Show 2016: Curtains up for the European premiere of the Rinspeed “Ʃtos”

• Geneva Motor Show 2016: Curtains up for the European premiere of the Rinspeed “Ʃtos”
• Disruptive technologies, sustainability and desirability: Automated driving with a great fun and whoa factor.

Disruptive innovations and new digital technologies are changing the world of mobility at an unprecedented speed. The “old world” of the traditional automaker meets the “new world” of software, algorithms, bits and bytes – “East meets West,” Palo Alto salutes Stuttgart – and vice versa.

Heavens only knows who will come out the “winner” in the still novel battle for data and user experience. Or is it peaceful coexistence that is called for? One thing is certain: It is precisely these changes and tomorrow’s possibilities that Swiss powerhouse of ideas Rinspeed now makes tangible and real with the self-driving “Ʃtos” concept car.

As always, the Swiss mastermind approaches the mega topic of “self-driving cars” primarily from the perspective of the driver and the occupants, the human component. And as always, he garnishes his concept with a host of inspiring and emotionally appealing highlights. In so doing, the automotive thinker together with consulting firm EY expressly puts one question on the agenda that is bound to occupy us for quite some time: How much human component should, must or may there be in a machine? 

Everyone involved realizes that answering this question requires merging expectations, tolerances and acceptance. There are countless unsettled issues, for example the morals and ethics of a machine, that need to be resolved. In addition, the means for the technical realization also must be developed. Rinderknecht ventures a prediction: “This process will likely lead to an adaptive, learning and intuitive control software. But it will be a long rocky road.”

The technical highlight in the interior of the “Ʃtos” is no doubt the folding and retracting steering wheel from ZF TRW. As if by magic, it disappears in the dashboard in a few seconds. This creates lots of space in front the driver who can grab and read a book in comfort the old-fashioned way or can work in a relaxed atmosphere. The position of the two curved 21.5-inch Ultra HD widescreen monitors is individually adjustable to provide an even better view of the displayed contents.

A matching fit is provided by the unrivalled infotainment experience that the innovative Harman Connected Car technologies conjure up in the vehicle. Just like a personal assistant, the system thinks along, is courteous, anticipates needs and on top of that provides perfect entertainment, connectivity and maximum safety. Destinations, route selection, tourist attractions, refueling, parking, making phone calls, music, videos or personal preferences - with every mile the “Ʃtos” gets to know the appointments, wishes and needs of the occupants better and in a flash proactively offers up the particular fitting selection options. 

This drastically reduces the number of distracting manual entries - despite significantly expanded functions. Should it nonetheless be necessary to enter a command, the “Ʃtos” responds promptly to voice commands, gestures, touch input, controller or the push of a button.

A total of eight HD exterior cameras visually monitor the vehicle surroundings completely. This makes impressive 180-degree panoramic views in front of the vehicle and behind possible and provides virtual “exterior mirrors” with an expanded field of vision that has no blind spots. People and objects in the entire vehicle surroundings are detected and tracked automatically. If they represent an accident hazard, the driver receives an appropriate warning. 

In tricky situations such as in parking garages, the so-called “Curb View” is activated automatically. It offers a “direct” view of the front wheels and thus helps prevent unwanted contact with curbs or other obstacles. The vehicle navigation also offers entirely new detail views. In parking garages, it directs drivers directly to a previously reserved parking space. Along the route, it displays realistic 3D images of buildings, trees, bus stops, subway stations and other distinctive waypoints. 

The roads and lanes have been scanned with pinpoint precision - an essential prerequisite for autonomous driving. Linking information about the route and the cell phone reception results in the passengers in future not only knowing where and how long they can expect to make phone or video calls without interruption, the technology also allows smooth media streaming as well as efficient and targeted vehicle updates. The seamless link to the traffic infrastructure such as traffic lights or traffic management systems and to other cars, especially emergency response vehicles, lets drivers and the vehicle look far beyond their own horizon and even through obstacles. 

The so-called ‘E-Horizon’ provides innovative safety and convenience features such as precise warnings of wrong-way drivers or simply gliding along smoothly in sync with the phased traffic lights. Speaking of seeing: The gaze-tracking system of the “Ʃtos” permanently monitors the driver’s eye movements and as a result, the vehicle not only knows what the driver has seen, but also what he has failed to see. This allows custom tailoring the displayed warnings and notifications. For precisely this reason, the electronic exterior mirrors only display an image when the driver consciously checks them. The HMI was designed and programmed by Luxoft. Georg Fischer Automotive supplied the aluminum lightweight-construction frame for the three displays.

As always, the Helvetian think tank, which following an old tradition once again commissioned the Swiss colleagues of 4erC to design the twenty-second concept car and Esoro to handle the technical realization, explores the existing digital possibilities - and demonstrates new ones. The “Ʃtos” is fitted with an on-board DJI drone complete with landing platform in the rear. An armada of 12,000 individually controlled LEDs can transform this platform into an electronic message board or a visual dancefloor. 

This technical marvel was designed by Swiss specialist Weidplas, which is also behind the rear window that has been converted into a third brake light and the brilliant seat inlays. The drone itself is capable of providing some very useful services. For example, it can quickly pick up a bouquet of flowers for the significant other ordered on the way home. And the little flyer is a lot of fun when it acts like a UFO, shooting a selfie of the ride in the “Ʃtos” on your local favorite route and streaming it live to friends. Heads up: that little thing has an extremely high addiction and envy factor!

The elegantly and futuristically styled “Ʃtos” - on the technical basis of the BMW i8 - is a sustainable but also a fast racer. The deep black and shiny 20-inch Borbet GTX aluminum rims leave no doubt about that. They give the body an imposing visual width and provide perfect handling on the track. To make the athlete as light as possible, Corning manufactures the glass roof and the “drone pad” in the rear from especially strong, lightweight and thin Gorilla glass, the same kind used in smartphones. The aluminum front structure and the carbon fiber passenger cell are joined together with ultra-high-modulus adhesive from Sika.

No question, Rinderknecht not only plays the role of the visionary, but also that of the magician in Las Vegas. And since a great show also goes hand in hand with unusual eye-catching packaging, the Swiss national uses ceramics and metal alloys in the “Ʃtos.” They are applied at temperatures above 20,000 degrees Celsius and at supersonic speed. The result is a unique appearance, a new touch and feel and a novel functionality that are all unprecedented in automotive construction. Apart from delicately designed trim strips, the vehicle sports rims with a titanium protective edge and non-slip titanium pedals. These magic moments come courtesy of the specialists from the German company Putzier Oberflächentechnik. Touch it, feel it - it really is magic!

The inviting interior, designed jointly by innovative textiles supplier Strähle+Hess and Stahl Company, the surface specialist for leather and synthetic substrates, forms an unusual and striking compound of natural leather with a variety of characteristics, patterns, functions and surfaces with the equally versatile textiles and piping. This creates a sporty and yet relaxed feel-good atmosphere, adorned with the embroidered skyline of San Francisco. As in past years, Schoeller Spinning Group supplied the high-tech threads for the interior.

The 3D effect finish of the paintwork on the front panel from Barlog plastics creates an exciting and striking visual bridge between the headlamps.

And then tradition merges with innovation: Above it all rises the mechanical Patravi Traveltec clock from Swiss Manufacture Carl F. Bucherer. It sits in a highly prominent position on the dashboard inside a rotating housing that moves automatically to wind the mechanical movement. The delicate housing resembles an airy arch. The camera integrated into the clock support pans directly to the driver or front passenger during video calls. Communication could hardly be more beautiful!

Polymer specialist Rehau developed the innovative lightweight-construction dashboard support and the clever bracket for the luggage shelf with detachable umbrella holder. A particularly efficient electrical heating system from Eberspächer provides cozy warmth in the interior. It also preheats the battery and offers a convenient auxiliary heating function. In keeping with the times, operation is by smartwatch or smartphone. The batteries of the “Ʃtos” are equally state of the art. Thanks to sophisticated technology from EVA Fahrzeugtechnik, they can also have a secondary purpose as a stationary energy storage unit when needed and consequently account for the requirements of the environment.

Connected cars are de rigueur nowadays. In the “Ʃtos,” Rinspeed partners demonstrate what is possible in the area of connectivity today and tomorrow: When it comes to data, perfect transmission and reception quality is essential not only for autonomous driving. The highly advanced octagonal flat antennas from Vites integrated into the glass roof play a crucial role to this end.

Inrix Company shows how a parking space in the city center can be located quickly by analyzing real-time data. The intelligent “Mica” industrial minicomputer from industrial connectivity specialist Harting illustrates how powertrain and engine data can be recorded continuously and transferred to an independent and neutral body such as Dekra, where they can be analyzed and presented depending on the contract previously negotiated between customer and contractual partner. This also makes it possible to lend credibility to odometer readings.

NXP ensures the secure connection of the car and its passengers to the outside world with its intelligent connectivity technologies – an important aspect for the connected self-driving car of tomorrow that must reliably capture its surroundings. This includes radar and car-to-x solutions as well as automatic payment for parking via NFC, wireless cell phone charging, smart access solutions and keyless remotes for unlocking, starting and customizing the vehicle.

SIX, the Swiss stock exchange and backbone of the Swiss financial market, shows an “on the go” payment system for secure transactions in the “Ʃtos.” Even smaller amounts such as tips can be paid by a small swiping gesture on the exterior mirror.

The tireless Swiss national and his international partners show a first step towards tomorrow’s individual mobility with the “Ʃtos,” staged by Saarbrücken-based Vollmond advertising agency.

The Rinspeed “Ʃtos” celebrates its European premiere at Rinspeed booth 6240 at the Geneva Motor Show, March 3 to 13, 2016.

USA - CES 2016 in Las Vegas: Rinspeed delivers visions of a special kind with the driverless,"ƩTOS“ Concept Car.

You’ll never drive alone! Personal autopilot and drone on board.

Gambler and show paradise Las Vegas: For the first time ever, Frank M. Rinderknecht, boss of the Swiss powerhouse of ideas Rinspeed, celebrates a world premiere outside his native Alpine country and presents the hybrid sports car „Ʃtos“ at the CES 2016 in Las Vegas. 

The car visionary says: “The major and especially the disruptive innovations in future automotive engineering will come from the digital realm. That is why all major manufacturers and suppliers are now present at the CES Consumer Electronic Show.”

The Swiss progressive thinker approached the mega topic of “driverless cars” largely from the point of view of drivers and passengers, and has generated a number of equally inspiring and emotional ideas. They include an intuitive, adaptive autopilot capable of learning. 

The resulting and much-debated question “How much man should, must or may be in a machine?” will be discussed for a long time.

The interior adapts to the particular driving situation as if by magic: In autonomous mode, the steering wheel folds up elegantly and retracts completely into the dashboard. The two curved widescreens individually move closer to the occupants to provide a better view. “It really has the power of magic!”

To provide the passengers with a unique infotainment experience, the Rinspeed „Ʃtos“ uses the innovative Harman Connected Car technologies. Just like a personal assistant, the system operates in a thinking, courteous and anticipatory manner. In addition, it delivers perfect entertainment, connectivity and maximum safety.

As is its tradition, the Helvetian think tank studies existing digital possibilities - and demonstrates new ones. It has fitted its sporty hybrid with a drone that has its own landing pad on the rear end. 

The many benefits this offers are evident: For example, it could fetch a bouquet of flowers the driver ordered online and even deliver it directly to the lucky recipient. It could also take a video of the wild ride on the favorite fun road and stream it live to friends!

No doubt, Frank M. Rinderknecht presents himself as a visionary and magician in Las Vegas. 

And, because a great show also definitely requires extraordinary head-turning packaging, the Swiss national opted to use special innovative surface finishes in the „Ʃtos“ that are still completely alien to car designers. Touch it, feel it - it’s magic!

The Rinspeed „Ʃtos“ is already the twenty-second concept vehicle designed in-house at the Swiss “innovation lab.”

Rinspeed to develop new mode with autonomous capability.

The vision of autonomous driving will soon become reality and will fundamentally change the interaction of man and automobiles. While the research centers of the automotive industry are still feverishly working on the technical solutions, progressive thinkers such as the Swiss idea factory Rinspeed are already giving concrete thought to how automated private transport will transform the car and the man-machine system. 

Besides fundamental conceptual changes, this will also have to involve issues of ethics and society.

In the past, the robots in the factories of this world merely assembled cars for people. In the new “Budii” concept car from Swiss automotive visionary Frank M. Rinderknecht the machine now literally reaches out to man: if the occupants of the autonomously driving electric vehicle feel like having some fun at the wheel on a twisty country road or off road, a robotic arm will hand the steering wheel to the driver of front passenger as desired, thereby transferring command. 

The sensitive 7-axis unit from Augsburg-based market leader is more than merely a steering column, however. In theory, it will make endless adjustment options possible: for example, during automated driving in the daily commute it parks the steering wheel in the center with minimum space requirements or it serves as a table or attentive personal valet. This is made possible by the unique and multi-redundant “steer-by-wire” technology from Paravan.

For the automotive idea factory Rinspeed the robotic arm in “Budii” is a symbol and food for thought at the same time. Rinspeed-Boss Rinderknecht puts it as follows, referring to a joint study with consulting firm EY: “The autonomously driving car will require more than solving technical problems and legal issues in the next two decades. We not only have to redefine the interaction of man and machine, but must also raise questions about responsibility, tolerances and expectations.” 

According to Rinderknecht, autonomous driving will undoubtedly offer the opportunity to make traffic more people-friendly and reduce the number of traffic accidents worldwide. “But even the best technology will not be perfect, albeit less prone to error than humans. That is something we will have to accept,” says the boss of the Swiss powerhouse of automotive ideas Rinspeed. “We should not develop a blind, but rather a healthy trust in the new capabilities of the hardware and software.”

“In the future, cars will do just as we do: they will keep learning every day, and as a result will get better and better at mastering the complex challenges of modern-day private transport.” To this end, “Budii” will take information from its surroundings, its own “experiences” and those of other vehicles along its route into consideration. The long-term result will be a cognitive and intuitive autopilot. The Swiss company will demonstrate what such a “friend on wheels” could look like with the trans-urban SUV “Budii” at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

Its entirely new operating and display system features a host of innovative entertainment, safety and service functions, and is based on the next-generation scalable platform from Harman, the world market leader in infotainment systems. The technologies of Rinspeed’s long-time main partner integrate all features of the RoboCar and quasi bring “Budii” to life. The system independently identifies the habits and preferences of the driver, and consequently reduces the necessary operating steps to a minimum. In this way, the car turns into a learning and proactive companion. The Harman audio division supplies the premium sound system of the Harman Kardon brand, letting “Budii” indulge its passengers with music in best HD quality.

The HMI design was created by Luxoft Consulting Germany, the lightweight-construction aluminum frame for the central display by Georg Fischer Automotive. NXP with its intelligent networking technologies provides the secure connection of the car and its occupants to the outside world. This includes radar and ‘Vehicle-to-X’ solutions as well as automatic payment for parking via NFC, cell phone charging by means of wireless power charging, clever access solutions, and a keyless entry remote for unlocking, starting and customizing the vehicle. In addition, solid state lighting products provide the proper LED lighting on the vehicle.

In keeping with a long-standing tradition, the electrically powered eye-catcher based on the BMW “i3” was engineered by Swiss company 4erC. The technical implementation was in the hands of Esoro, which also put “Budii” on sporty 19-inch 8-twin-spoke alloys from Borbet. The technical goodies include an air suspension with a ride-height adjustment range of 100 mm, which will ensure that fun escapes from daily routine will continue to be possible in the future. A telescoping laser scanner from Hamburg-based Ibeo Automotive Systems on the roof called “TrackView” can be raised by 70 centimeters and delivers a precise 3D perspective by means of sensor fusion.  In concert with a high-resolution camera from Kappa optronics it maps the terrain. 

As a result, the ride height and suspension of the vehicle are adjusted accordingly. What’s more: it also makes it possible for the driver to identify and avoid potential obstacles at an early stage, and even have the vehicle do so autonomously.  As a special gem for mobility on the final stretch to the destination, the development engineers have incorporated two electric two-wheel mini vehicles that are housed conveniently in retractable automatic drawers on either side of the vehicle.

Comfortable access to the interior is provided by the innovative electric door opening and closing system from technology leader Kiekert, while privacy during autonomous driving is ensured by a folding fan system from Zypalis whose leaves can be custom-printed. Front and rear multifunction panels from Swiss company Weidplas integrate turn signals, brake lights and tail lights. They also use ambient light effects and communication elements to stay in contact with other road users. The integrated fiber optics and semi-transparent covers of these panels are made from PMMA supplied by specialist chemical group Evonik, and attached using Sika bonding and sealing materials.

The fact that electric vehicles can also be sexy and emotionally charged - in Rinspeed’s view even have to be in order to sell better - is proven by “Budii’s” bright anthracite paint finish with sparkler effect. In the interior, designed jointly by Hornschuch and Strähle+Hess, silver-colored and midnight-blue “skai” surfaces as well as the cognac-colored textile with signal-orange highlights in edging and band create a feel-good lounge atmosphere. The floor carpets and floor mats were supplied by Racemark Industries, the innovative rear shelf made from thermoplastics by Schoeller Spinning Group. The finishing touches for the entire interior decoration were added by the firm of Mansory. Removable Plexiglas worktables allow relaxed working during autonomous driving.

The air outlets with ambient lighting in the dashboard, the wellness shower in the headliner and the center console with cup holders and stowage compartments for cell phones complete with inductive charging function come from Dr. Schneider Group. A particularly efficient electric heating system from Eberspächer ensures cozy warmth in the interior. It also provides pre-heating of the battery and ensures a convenient auxiliary heater function. In keeping with the times, the system is controlled via smartwatch or smartphone.

The look through the steering wheel reveals the world’s most intelligent watch winder. That is another trick “Buddie’s” robotic arm has up its sleeve, proving it truly is a friend of the driver: it uses ingenious motions to wind the movement of the classy and technically sophisticated “Manero PowerReserve” watch from Lucerne-based watchmaker Carl F. Bucherer as soon as the high-resolution Kappa camera in the interior recognizes that the power reserve displayed on the watch face is about to be depleted. Well yes, sometimes they are also a little bit playful at the Swiss think tank and mobility lab Rinspeed.

As in the past, Saarbrucken-based advertising agency Vollmond has also staged the twenty-first Rinspeed concept car to full effect.