JOYFUL DESIGN
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Autonomy 2040

Autonomy 2040

How might an automotive brand renowned for its venerable driver experience and spirited gas engines adapt as the world shifts toward autonomous electric vehicles?
— Acura 2040 Initiative

PROJECT OVERVIEW

To conceptually explore a branded autonomous luxury vehicle experience for the year 2040.

MOOD PIECE VIDEO

CONCEPT: ‘SAMURAI SANCTUARY’

Leveraging timeless Japanese traditions of Craftsmanship, Ceremony + Contemplation to inform the future of autonomous EV luxury experience

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EXTERIOR THEME: CRAFTSMANSHIP

EXTERIOR INSPIRATION 1: SAMURAI ARMOR- NOBLE, PROTECTIVE, FLEXIBLE

Inspirations combine Samurai Armor Craftsmanship, Kirigami with emerging kinematic self-assembly techniques.

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Kirigami

A variation of origami that includes cutting paper rather than solely folding it. This traditional craft inspires how vehicle adapts to user needs. Interior seating folds out depending on how many occupants are being carried, and the exterior does so in regards to whether the vehicle is occupied (full size), parked or taxiing without carrying occupants (compacted).

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INTERIOR: CEREMONY + CONTEMPLATION

CEREMONY: A WELCOMING

Seats take their inspiration from tea ceremonies. They raise from floor to welcome you. They also draw inspiration from large rocks found in Zen Gardens. It is traditional to sit on the floor during tea ceremonies, and the rocks in Zen Gardens symbolize islands in the sea- representing both the Japanese archipelago and the notion of focal points of meditation.

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CONTEMPLATION: CURATIVE FOCUS AROUND SINGULAR MOMENTS

An interior focal point provides a symbolic center of contemplation.

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Sketch models exploring focal point and skybox frame

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Interactive windows elevate passenger experience by dynamically framing and re-contextualizing the outside world.

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The vehicle’s AI eyes and ears capture the outside world as it passes by, and then curates various kinesthetic experiences back to the passengers.

3/4 Interior/Exterior Model made from vacu-formed polycarbonate