Japanese chemical corporation Asahi Kasei has unveiled a concept car named the AKXY2 in Yokohama, continuing its series of automotive design experiments started five years ago. The vehicle debuted as a pure design study that could later join a taxi or ridesharing fleet.
The AKXY2 is essentially a mobile platform with low sidewalls and a glass bubble for cabin. It appears that the glass can be adjusted for transparency and raised on vertical supports to let the passengers get in or out. The only thing that passes for a conventional door is actually a part of the sidewall that kicks out to form an access ramp.
The interior resembles a tiny guestroom more than anything else, what with the seats, the wooden table and the sensor display. As a fully autonomous vehicle, the capsule has no controls in sight.
Asahi Kasei believes the study emphasizes its environmental friendliness and drive towards a healthy lifestyle. For instance, the interior trim repels microbes, and dedicated air quality sensors are running to ensure breathing quality. Ergonomically padded seats boast recycled plastic covers, and biological additives have found their way into the low-drag tires.
Aside from the current expo, the vehicle will visit a few events overseas, including the Detroit Motor Show and the CES-2023 in Las Vegas.