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The RUMBA research project, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, explores the transformative impact of automated driving on vehicle interiors. Led by Bosch and boasting a consortium of experts from industry and academia, this initiative delves into user expectations to reimagine how spaces inside vehicles are designed and utilized. With an investment of approximately $11 million, RUMBA is setting the stage for innovative living and working environments within vehicles, tailored to enhance the passenger experience during automated travel.
Key Highlights:
- Versatile Use of Vehicle Space: Future vehicles could serve multiple purposes, from mobile offices to entertainment hubs.
- User-Focused Design: Adapting to user preferences for comfort and utility during automated trips.
- Technological Integration: Implementation of advanced steer-by-wire systems to maximize interior flexibility.
During its three-and-a-half-year span, the RUMBA project has closely examined how automated driving can transform a vehicle’s interior into dynamic living and working spaces. Michael Schulz, the project manager from Bosch, emphasized the profound implications for future vehicle design, stating, “This newly acquired basic knowledge will shape the planning of new vehicle generations. A completely new living and working space could be created for users in the future.”
By conducting surveys and studies, the team has identified key preferences among professional and private drivers concerning how they wish to spend their travel time when not engaged in driving. This shift in role from driver to passenger necessitates a reevaluation of interior design, focusing on comfort and functionality. For instance, alternative controls and customizable interior settings are being developed to cater to both manual and automated driving needs.
Challenges in Transitioning to Automated Driving:
- Safety and Comfort: Ensuring a smooth transition for passengers waking from sleep to taking control of the vehicle.
- Motion Sickness Prevention: Emulating the gentle driving style of professional chauffeurs in automated vehicles to enhance passenger comfort.
RUMBA has explored various aspects of interior aesthetics and functionality, such as color schemes, materials, lighting, and control elements, to create optimal conditions based on different travel scenarios. However, challenges remain in balancing user desires with safety standards and spatial constraints, particularly in designs allowing for rotating seats while in motion.
Innovative Opportunities for Service Providers: The project has highlighted new possibilities for service providers by transforming traditional vehicle functions and expanding into new markets. Schulz concludes, “Our project has opened the door to the development of a variety of innovations. We are convinced that the insights gained will help ensure that individual mobility is experienced and designed in a new way in the future.”
Bottom Line
The RUMBA project not only foresees a shift in how vehicle interiors are perceived and used but also sets a foundation for continuous innovation in automotive design, focusing on user satisfaction and technological advancements.
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