Volkswagen has unveiled the Gen.E research vehicle
at the Future Mobility Days event in Germany. The concept has an aerodynamic exterior with sculpted
bodywork, a rakish windshield, and special alloy wheels. The car also has
flush-mounted door handles and what appears to be video pods that replace the
side mirrors. Other highlights include LED daytime running lights, unique side
windows, and an open charging port on the hood.
Volkswagen didn't have much to say about the car but
noted it rides on a lightweight architecture that has been "designed for
maximum crash safety."
Power is provided by a high-tech battery which uses
"advanced lithium-ion cells" that give the car a range in excess of
400 km. The battery feeds an "optimized" electric motor
but the company declined to reveal performance specifications.
One of the more interesting aspects about the Gen.E
is the fact that it was designed to work with mobile robots. As Volkswagen
explains, they are working on robots that will automatically connect charging
cables to electric vehicles for added convenience. The robots are envisioned to
be used in underground parking garages and multi-story car parks.
