2018 Geneva Motor Show: Volkswagen I.D. Vizzion 2030 concept revealed

VOLKSWAGEN has provided a glimpse toward 2030, with its next-generation I.D Vizzion premium sedan concept.

The fourth instalment of the I.D. concept series, which includes the I.D. Hatchback, I.D. Crozz SUV and I.D. Buzz van, will be the brand’s future flagship. While a production version is expected in 2021, this concept looks ahead another nine years where autonomous driving will mean the cabin can be rearranged to a plush lounge.

You’ll also be able to change the cabin ambience and seating positions to create an atmosphere conducive to work, rest, play or communicate using holograms and augmented reality technology.

At more than five metres long, the limo-sized Vizzion’s cabin space is freed up by the lack of conventional controls while clamshell doors provide a wide opening for passengers.

You’ll have plenty to enjoy the big interior and its features, because with Level-5 autonomy, the all-electric sedan will become the chauffer and will drive itself up to 615km before requiring a charge.

This will be achieved with some serious high-tech including LIDAR laser scanners, ultra-sound sensors, radar sensors cameras located around the vehicle.

Artificial intelligence will also be used for the car to think ahead rather than using the sensors to react and to teach it to communicate with the occupants.

Power is courtesy of two electric motors sending 75kW and 150kW to the front and rear wheels respectively and will suck electrons from a 111kWh lithium-ion battery laid below flat floor to help maintain centre of gravity.

It will have a theoretical top-speed governed to 180km/h and reach 0-100km/h in a moderate 6.3 seconds.

Safety features include facial recognition to ensure the not anyone can jump in and tell the I.D. Vizzion to drive somewhere, and you’ll be able to use voice and gesture control to avoid having to reach around and possibly press the wrong button.

While it remains to be seen if the predicted technologies will eventuate, the I.D. Vizzion’s production progeny will be the standard bearer of Volkswagen’s massive commitment to electrification and autonomy, even if it does initially arrive with a steering wheel.