The driver and passenger experience is expected to change drastically once autonomous driving becomes more commonplace, which is something the General Motors Smart Pod concept takes into account in its rendering.
Equipped with Level 5 autonomy, the vehicle is outfitted with a retractable 50-inch retina LED display that would provide information for passengers related to driving as well as for entertainment or leisure viewing. The vehicle is imagined under the Buick brand and features a glasshouse-like construction that is opaque from the exterior, but transparent from the interior to allow for expansive views.
The General Motors Smart Pod concept is paired with impressively comfortable seats to let passengers relax as they travel between locations. The vehicle was unveiled at the Auto Guangzhou 2021 show.
TV-Equipped Autonomous Vehicles
The General Motors Smart Pod Concept Has Level 5 Autonomy
Trend Themes
1. Autonomous Driving Entertainment - As autonomous driving becomes more commonplace, there will be a huge opportunity to innovate in-vehicle entertainment experiences like with GM's retractable 50-inch retina LED display Smart Pod concept.
2. Transparency-driven Automotive Design - Designing cars with more transparency, like with GM's Smart Pod concept, provides opportunities to revolutionize automotive design and passenger experience.
3. Level 5 Autonomy in Vehicles - As vehicles are equipped with full autonomy, car manufacturers can innovate introducing unique features, such as with GM's Smart Pod's concept’s retractable large screen display, to improve passenger experience.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - With the rise of autonomous vehicles, the automotive industry has an opportunity to innovate and create new products or services that can improve passenger experience, such as designing vehicles with more in-vehicle entertainment options.
2. Consumer Electronics - The increasing demand for in-vehicle entertainment experiences can create an opportunity for consumer electronics makers to design products and software tailored to the needs of autonomous vehicle passengers, like GM's Smart Pod concept's retractable 50-inch retina LED display.
3. Transportation - As autonomous driving becomes more widespread, there will be opportunities for transportation industry players to increase convenience and enhance the passenger experience through innovations such as those seen in GM's Smart Pod concept with improved comfort and entertainment options.