This is the Audi AI:ME, introduced at the Shanghai
Auto Show as a “visionary mobility concept for the megacities of the future.” The AI:ME is powered by a 65 kWh
battery pack and a synchronous electric motor producing 170 hp and located at the
rear axle. Audi hasn’t stated a theoretical range for the electric city car but
says that because it is catered towards slow driving, acceleration and top
speeds figures are irrelevant as the car would spend most of its time traveling
between 20 km/h and 70 km/h.
The concept has an overall length of 4.3 meters, a width of 1.9 meters, and a height of 1.52 meters. A long wheelbase of 2.77 meters has allowed Audi to maximize
interior space and reduce the front and rear overhangs.
It has been
designed with a Level 4 autonomous driving system meaning it can drive itself
in most situations without the input of the driver. However, unlike the Audi
AIcon concept which was unveiled with Level 5 autonomy, the AI:ME retains a
traditional steering wheel and pedals just in case the driver needs to take
over. The steering wheel and pedals are perhaps the most traditional elements
of the interior.
Audi has developed remarkably-thin A-, B-, and
C-pillars for the AI:ME, providing the concept with an airy and refreshing
feeling. There are two seats up front and a single rear bench seat at the rear.
Exposed wooden accents dominate much of the cabin and there are even little
pieces of greenery in the headliner and dashboard.
The exterior of the concept is just as untraditional
as the cabin. Up front, Audi has designed intriguing LED headlights and fitted
the car with a windshield that stretches down much farther than you’d expect.
The concept also features large wheels while at the rear there aren’t any
traditional taillights and instead a light bar fitted to the inside of the rear
window. There is also a large ‘e-tron’ badge on the rear bumper.
