This modular system includes a passenger capsule, which can be attached to a motorized base that allows for driving and a quadcopter that allows for flight.
The 2018 Geneva Motor Show focuses on cars. However, Italdesign has teamed with Audi to present something a little different. Did we say Airbus? That’s the company that makes huge airplanes. We did. The Pop.Up Next modular system also includes a huge quadcopter that can transport passengers and cars to the skies.
Italdesign describes Pop.Up Next as a “fully-electric and zero emission modular system designed to alleviate traffic congestion in large urban areas.” The core of the setup is an electric vehicle that can be detached from its motorized base to fly around town with a quadcopter. This idea was presented last year at Geneva Motor Show. Audi has now joined the fray and the components are being refined to make this crazy idea more real.
Audi brings its expertise in autonomous driving and battery electric propulsion to this project. This can be seen in the motorized base for the modular system. Airbus is clearly the driving force behind this air module. Over the past year, the aerospace company has made improvements to the design and rotorducts that will improve efficiency. Italdesign and Airbus are working together on several technical systems for the capsule. This includes the coupling system to secure it to the quadcopter.
The entire system could theoretically function as a ride-sharing service. The fully autonomous capsules could be transported via ground using electric bases. Rotor modules can then pick up passengers to help them get around the city quicker.
Although it’s a unique approach to the flying car that we all long for, it’s still far from being a viable mode. The challenges of autonomous drones that can fly around cities in the size of cars are just some of the reasons why autonomous automotive systems are still very much in their infancy. It offers a solution to traffic congestion, and may be a glimpse into the future of motoring.