Yanfeng Automotive Interiors Brings XiM20 Autonomous Rideshare Interior Concept to Motor City

Yanfeng Automotive Interiors is showing its XiM20 autonomous rideshare interior concept today at its North American headquarters in Novi.
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Yanfeng Automotive Interiors XiM20
Yanfeng Automotive Interiors has designed XiM20, customizable vehicle interiors for rideshare vehicles. // Photo courtesy of Yanfeng Automotive Interiors

Yanfeng Automotive Interiors is showing its XiM20 autonomous rideshare interior concept today at its North American headquarters in Novi.

The concept is YFAI’s idea of what the interior of a fully autonomous rideshare vehicle could be, complete with experiences that are customizable to passengers’ preferences and better suit their journey.

YFAI says the XiM20 is a reflection of the most in-depth primary research the company has done to date.

“Approaching this next iteration of the XiM demonstrator, we knew it was critical to evaluate users’ wants and needs within the vehicle and outside of the mobility context,” says Han Hendriks, chief technology officer for Yanfeng Automotive Interiors. “The insights gleaned from our research defined what impacts consumers’ quality of life and what creates memorable, engaging experiences. With the XiM20, advanced technologies and product innovations complement intuitive design, providing flexibility and comfort for the autonomous rideshare passengers of tomorrow.”

The XiM20 showcases technology integrations that stimulate the senses without overwhelming passengers with an array of options and features. By camouflaging the demonstrator’s screens and navigation systems within the surfaces of the vehicle using Smart Surface Technologies, passengers can choose whether or not to engage with the innovations around them.

“We have the capabilities to provide holistic total interior solutions, Hendrik says. “As we approached this iteration of the XiM, we had to ask ourselves: If we choose to feature every product and technology available within this space, are we offering value? Our research said ‘no.’ Instead, to design and develop interiors in this context, we needed to understand and craft experiences that are engaging and surprising, without being overly complex. For future mobility, this is where the opportunity lies.”

The XiM20 interior is designed to enable the use of two distinct zones: The bright, airy front of the demonstrator and the more cocoon-like rear, offering lounge seating and privacy. Controls for the interior environment are accessible on the smart interior surfaces table located at the front of the demonstrator or can be accessed via a smartphone application.