Japan’s Asahi Kasei is celebrating their centennial by unveiling the AKXY2 concept. Designed to reimagine “how values for sustainability, satisfaction and society will influence the needs of future mobility on the road to automation and electrification,” the concept is a futuristic pod that shares some visual similarities to the Wienermobile of all things. Putting that aside, the concept features a ‘split’ body with a streamlined lower section and an upper glass canopy. The latter rises vertically, while a door folds down to provide access to the cabin.
The company didn’t say much about the
exterior, but it features slender lighting units and aerodynamic wheel covers
with what appears to be transparent inserts. The model also rides on S-SBR
tires, which are made from a bio-based butadiene and have a low rolling
resistance.
The futuristic design continues in the
cabin as there’s an ottoman as well as two individual seats with Cubit
cushioning, which features a “3D mesh material made of PET and partially
bio-based PTT.” Elsewhere, there’s Dinamica microfiber upholstery, a small
wooden table, and a minimalist information display. Since the model lacks a
steering wheel and pedals, it’s probably safe to assume the concept is envisioned
to be fully autonomous. The technology features extend beyond the driving
system as the concept has been equipped with the company’s Healthy Car
Portfolio of products. Among the features are antimicrobial fabrics and a CO2
sensor that works to ensure “optimal air quality.”
Rounding out the highlights are
sustainable textiles as well as semi-transparent and backlit fabrics. They’re
joined by an optical fiber ambient lighting system. According to Asahi Kasei
America’s Director of North American Mobility, Mike Franchy, the “AKXY2
showcases our expertise as a trusted partner to OEMs and Tier-1s for both
interior and exterior components and technology.” He added the company has come
a long way in the past 100 years and he’s “looking forward to seeing these contributions
continue to shape the automotive industry.”
The concept will be shown at a number of
upcoming events including the North American International Auto Show in
September and CES in January.
