Japan’s Asahi Kasei is celebrating their centennial by unveiling the AKXY2 concept.
Designed to reimagine “how values for sustainability, satisfaction and society will influence the needs of future mobility on the road to automation and electrification,” the concept is a futuristic pod that shares some visual similarities to the Wienermobile of all things.
Putting that aside, the concept features a ‘split’ body with a streamlined lower section and an upper glass canopy. The latter rises vertically, while a door folds down to provide access to the cabin.
The company didn’t say much about the exterior, but it features slender lighting units and aerodynamic wheel covers with what appears to be transparent inserts. The model also rides on S-SBR tires, which are made from a bio-based butadiene and have a low rolling resistance.
The futuristic design continues in the cabin as there’s an ottoman as well as two individual seats with Cubit cushioning, which features a “3D mesh material made of PET and partially bio-based PTT.” Elsewhere, there’s Dinamica microfiber upholstery, a small wooden table, and a minimalist information display. Since the model lacks a steering wheel and pedals, it’s probably safe to assume the concept is envisioned to be fully autonomous.
The technology features extend beyond the driving system as the concept has been equipped with the company’s Healthy Car Portfolio of products. Among the features are antimicrobial fabrics and a CO2 sensor that works to ensure “optimal air quality.”
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Rounding out the highlights are sustainable textiles as well as semi-transparent and backlit fabrics. They’re joined by an optical fiber ambient lighting system.
According to Asahi Kasei America’s Director of North American Mobility, Mike Franchy, the “AKXY2 showcases our expertise as a trusted partner to OEMs and Tier-1s for both interior and exterior components and technology.” He added the company has come a long way in the past 100 years and he’s “looking forward to seeing these contributions continue to shape the automotive industry.”
The concept will be shown at a number of upcoming events including the North American International Auto Show in September and CES in January.
