Volkswagen
BUDD-e
The Volkswagen BUDD-e is a futuristic, all-electric, concept designed
to showcase a modular architecture specifically designed for electric-powered
vehicles. Based around the new "Modular Electronic Toolkit",
the BUDD-e features a 101 kWh battery hidden within the floor, an
electric motor up front, and another in the rear.
The Volkswagen BUDD-e features a quick-charge system which allows
the battery to be charged to 80 percent capacity in just 15 minutes.
In addition to the electric drive system, the BUDD-e can also be used
as a power source for other items, and is capable of acting as a controler
for a smart home, or allowing interaction with a smart office setup.
Volkswagen say the BUDD-e was inspired by the classic and iconic VW
vans from the past. Although that seems more like marketing blurb
than reality, as there are few design features shared between the
two. The VW
Microbus concept from 2001 was much closer to the original in
terms of design - and also better looking than the rather generic-looking
BUDD-e.
On the inside the Volkswagen BUDD-e looks like quite a nice way to
travel. It's roomy, light, and filled with entertainment gadgets as
well as technology designed to allow the occupants to interact with
either a smart home or office.
With the BUDD-e's interface design, Volkswagen eliminates the traditional
distinction between the electronic instrument cluster in front of
the driver and the center console infotainment system.
All of the vehicle's systems are operated intuitively by gesture control,
touchscreen (displays and touch slider) or voice control. The driver
can choose between various intuitive control modes (multi-modal interaction).
For example, a simple "Hello BUDD-e" activates the vehicle’s
voice control. The system also offers completely natural speech interaction.
For example, if the driver asks "turn the heat up a bit, please",
the car will respond immediately and appropriately. The system is
also able to locate the passenger giving the commands, and react accordingly.
If, for instance, someone sitting in the left rear seat says "It's
too hot here", BUDD-e can immediately lower the temperature in
that passenger's zone.
| Make |
Volkswagen |
| Model |
BUDD-e |
| Concept Year |
2015 |
| Engine / Drivetrain |
Electric, AWD |
|
