Volvo takes the lead in cabin design for autonomous cars

Thanks to the layout of its passenger-focused interiors, Volvo’s design chiefs believe the company is well placed to lead cabin design for autonomous vehicles.

In an interview with Autocar, design vice president Thomas Ingenlath explains that its European rivals have developed driver-centred cabins, whereas Volvo has prioritised the comfort of all passengers.

“The fact that we are not a company with a passion for power and that does not focus its efforts on the driver means that we can spend more time exploring the rest area for passengers. In the S90 Excellence we used a special centre console and removed a seat to explore what could be done with that free space,” says Ingenlath.

For many years, Volvo has been carrying out studies to optimise passenger well-being in its vehicles. That knowledge is now helping it design the interiors of autonomous cars.

“All the research we have carried out shows that our way of looking at cars has naturally become the way future cars will be used,” adds Volvo’s design vice president.

Robin Page, Volvo’s vice president of interior design, has also said that seats will play a more important role in cabin design. “Seats will do many more things. If you want to move the seat into a different position, how does the seat move you?” says Page.

Previewing the innovations Volvo’s interiors will introduce in the future, Page noted that the cabin of the Volvo Concept 26 includes adjustable seats that allow the driver to lie down completely.

Source: Autocar