Audi Aicon Concept Reveals Level 5 Autonomous Vision at 2017 Frankfurt Show
Audi’s Aicon concept, unveiled at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, previews a fully autonomous luxury saloon with no steering wheel, four electric motors and a claimed 500-mile range.
Audi presented the Aicon concept at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, outlining its vision for a fully autonomous, electric luxury saloon. The Aicon dispenses with a steering wheel and pedals entirely, relying on Level 5 autonomous technology to handle all driving tasks without human intervention.
The Aicon’s interior is configured for four passengers in a 2+2 layout, with a focus on comfort and space. Its wheelbase exceeds that of the flagship A8, allowing for a cabin more reminiscent of a first-class airline suite than a conventional car. The seats swivel for easy access and face-to-face conversation, and the absence of traditional controls frees up space for passengers to work, relax or hold meetings while in transit.
Level 5 autonomy: no driver required
Audi’s concept is built around the assumption that future vehicles will require no human input. The Aicon is equipped with sensors and systems designed to handle all road conditions, including emergencies, without any intervention. Passengers interact with the car via screens integrated throughout the cabin, including a windscreen that can double as a display surface.
Externally, the Aicon uses digital lighting with hundreds of pixel segments, allowing the lights to display images or project information for other road users and autonomous vehicles. These digital “light areas” can also mimic eyes to track objects or people, a feature Audi says is intended to improve communication between car and environment.
Electric powertrain and range claims
The Aicon’s powertrain consists of four electric motors, one for each wheel, delivering a combined output of 350 horsepower. Audi claims a range of 435 to 500 miles (700 to 800km) on a single charge at a steady 80mph (130kph). The concept is designed to recharge itself autonomously, returning to 80 percent battery capacity within 30 minutes, so passengers do not need to interrupt their journey for charging stops.
With its focus on autonomous operation, the Aicon is not intended for spirited driving or performance metrics. Instead, the concept positions itself as a premium mobility solution for future cities, where personal driving may become secondary to comfort, connectivity and productivity on the move.
Design and technology showcase
Audi’s designers have used the Aicon to explore how removing the need for a driver reshapes the car’s architecture. The flat floor, large glass areas and digital interfaces combine to create an open, lounge-like atmosphere. The exterior’s digital lighting technology hints at new ways autonomous cars could communicate with other vehicles and pedestrians.
The Aicon joins a series of concepts at Frankfurt in 2017 that imagine a future of electric, self-driving vehicles prioritising passenger experience over traditional driving engagement. For more on Audi’s approach to concept vehicles, seeFrankfurt Motor Show Live Audi Sport Quattro Concept.
