KATHMANDU: Volkswagen Group has started a new phase of autonomous driving tests in Wolfsburg, Germany, using its research vehicle Gen.Urban1, according to an official press release.
The test does not focus only on self-driving technology. Instead, it studies user experience and passenger acceptance in a vehicle without a steering wheel or pedals.
Gen.Urban1 is designed to understand how people behave inside an autonomous vehicle. The research looks at how passengers spend their time and how different age groups interact with the digital system.
Before the trip, users can set cabin temperature and ambient lighting using an app or inside the vehicle. Once inside, the digital cockpit adjusts automatically. AI personalizes the front display, lighting, and sound based on user preferences.
The vehicle features a curved exterior design. Sensors are mounted at all four corners of the roof. It also uses camera-based exterior mirrors instead of traditional ones.
Although there is no steering wheel, safety remains a priority. A trained safety driver sits in the passenger seat. The driver can take control at any time using a special joystick control panel.
The test route is nearly 10 km long and runs through Wolfsburg city roads. It includes traffic lights, roundabouts, residential areas, construction zones, and busy intersections. Each test drive lasts about 20 minutes.
This testing phase will run for several weeks and is limited to Volkswagen Group employees.
Dr. Nikolai Ardey, Head of Volkswagen Group Innovation, said building trust is essential for autonomous driving. He added that a calm cabin environment and smart assistance systems are key to passenger comfort.
