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Volkswagen I.D. Vizzion concept: Geneva debut for all-electric, self-driving saloon

More rear-hinged 'suicide' doors for the Geneva show, in this case on VW's I.D. Vizzion concept
More rear-hinged 'suicide' doors for the Geneva show, in this case on VW's I.D. Vizzion concept

Volkswagen has revealed a teaser image of its I.D. Vizzion concept for a premium, fully autonomous saloon, which it will display at the Geneva motor show in a couple of weeks.

VW has stated that it aims to have more than 20 electric vehicles in production by 2025. Starting in 2020, the Golf-sized I.D. will be launched in the compact class; this will be followed by an electric SUV derivative, called the I.D. Crozz, and then the I.D. Buzz, a spacious saloon that has caused plenty of interest wherever it has been shown.

This was especially the case for a 'microbus' version styled along the lines of the classic VW Type 2 campervan, which was the star of the Detroit motor show in January 2017.

The ID Vizzion concept is the fourth member of the all-electric I.D. family. It is a premium-class saloon with full autonomous capability.

The total system power is 302bhp, sufficient for a top speed of 111mph (presumably for selected German autobahnen rather than the UK's 70mph-restricted motroways and dual-carriageways), with the 111kWh lithium-ion batteries providing a claimed range of 413 miles - when energy recouped from the regenerative braking system is taken into account.

Volkswagen VW I.D. Buzz id Detroit microbus
Volkswagen VW I.D. Buzz id Detroit microbus

Although, when you think about it, that amount shouldn't be much as, surely, autonomous cars will 'read' the road ahead to minimise large braking efforts.

It should grip and accelerate with aplomb, as its twin electric motors supply power to all four wheels.

Inside, VW claims to have exploited the potential of autonomous vehicles by providing a clean and spacious accommodation for four passengers to relax while a ‘digital chauffeur' assumes steering and navigation duties – without a steering wheel or visible controls.

The interior incorporates a virtual host, with which passengers communicate via voice and gesture control. With access to their digital habits, the personal assistant will know the preferences of the occupants and supply information and entertainment to suit.

Volkswagen I.D. VIZZION - geneva show 2018
It'll be strange staring out over a dashboard without a steering wheel or instruments

VW reckons that the I.D. Vizzion concept demonstrates how elegant and emotional the design of a vehicle of the future can be.

Look out for our reports from the show's press day on March 6 to find out whether it lives up to the hype.

 

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