In order to realize the left-right sliding of steering wheel and other components, Volvo replaced all vehicle control devices with wire-controlled components. According to Volvo's explanation, the pedal can be replaced by pressure-sensitive pads, hydraulic or pneumatic sensors, but in either case, the pedal will move with the steering wheel.
There is a guide rail in the car, and the steering wheel and other parts are mounted on it. The steering wheel can slide left and right as needed. As we all know, many countries drive right-hand drive cars, such as Britain and Japan. With this technology, it means that vehicles equipped with this technology are suitable for all countries, because each country can adjust its driving position according to its own laws and regulations. Of course, you can sit in the middle if the law permits.
Speaking of the reasons for developing this technology, Volvo said that sliding the steering wheel away will allow passengers to enjoy more space when riding a self-driving car. For example, in case of traffic jam, the driver can slide the steering wheel away to read a book, which is much more convenient than many schemes in which the steering wheel is retracted into the dashboard, and the manufacturing cost is lower than the latter.
Mclaren F 1
Mclaren F 1
In fact, cars with instruments and even driving positions in non-traditional positions (left or right) have long existed, such as the early MINI? COOPER put the speedometer in the middle because the manufacturer wants to sell MINI in all countries? Cooper does not need to adjust the position of speedometer, which can reduce the manufacturing cost. Another example is the McLaren F 1 sports car. The driver's seat of the car was arranged in the middle, which surprised many people who saw the car for the first time.
Speaking of Volvo's patents, Volvo did not say that it would be mass-produced. Of course, it will take some time if it is mass-produced. However, this new technology is very innovative.
This article comes from car home, the author of the car manufacturer, and does not represent car home's position.