Hyundai Mobis unveils future mobility concept models

The Korea Times

The Korea Times

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Tue, September 26, 2023 | 02:15

Companies

Hyundai Mobis unveils future mobility concept models

Posted : 2021-04-26 14:51

Updated : 2021-04-26 19:55

The Hyundai Mobis M.VISION POP concept model / Courtesy of Hyundai Mobis

By Kim Hyun-bin

Hyundai Mobis has unveiled numerous future mobility concept models, including the M.Vision POP, at recent future strategy and technology conferences.The Hyundai Motor's car parts affiliate has already completed some of the new technologies on display, while others are currently under development, showcasing the company's vision for current and future technologies.

The development of the M.Vision POP in particular is set to be complete in the near future, and the technology commercialized within five years.

"The vehicle's four wheels can be steered independently, even turning them 180 degrees, capable of moving sideways just like a crab," Hyundai Mobis said. "When linked with a smartphone, it personalizes the car settings through a digital display. For example, it detects when the driver is drowsy and moves the steering wheel to the passenger seat."

The key description for the M.Vision POP is "PHOBILITY," a word that combines "phone" and "mobility." It has embedded a new technology that docks the smartphone on the steering wheel with the user able to steer the vehicle using the device.

The smartphone docked on the steering wheel acts as the controller of the vehicle. The smartphone navigation can be linked to the front display and conduct voice and user recognition. Due to the use of smart sensors, there is no steering column, so the steering structure can move over to the front-seat passenger.

M.Vision POP features Hyundai's Mobis's e-corner module platform, which systemically integrates the wheel's drive, brake, suspension and steering functions. Each wheel is independently steered, which enhances safety on the road, enables the car to make U-turns without forward movement and perform "crab drive," which moves the vehicle sideways.

Hyundai Mobis also unveiled a purpose built version of the M.Vision X.

Global carmakers have been seeking to develop full self-driving technology as their next level of mobility transportation, and Hyundai Mobis is no different unveiling a concept car each year at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and other global events.

The company has been coming close to actualizing its concept models, which started with the M.Vision in 2019, the M.Vision S in 2020 and now the M.Vision X, which includes more state-of-the-art technologies. The X stands for: "eXpansion" of communication, "eXperience" and "eXpedition."

The most notable trait of the M.Vision X is the vertical control column that is located at the center of the vehicle, with each of its sides coming with 28-inch displays that allow each passenger to enjoy the diverse content of their choice. The displays could be controlled through gestures, without directly making contact with the screens.

hyunbin@koreatimes.co.kr