Buick showcased its innovation with the global introduction of the forward-looking concept vehicle – the Smart Pod – at Auto Guangzhou 2021, this year’s leading automotive industry event in southern China.
Created by GM’s Advanced Design Studio in the United States, the Smart Pod leverages industry-leading autonomous driving technology and GM’s Ultium platform to project a safe, comfortable and intelligent experience for work and relaxation while commuting.
The Smart Pod allows users to maximize their productivity while experiencing a world-class level of comfort, safety and connectivity for hub-to-hub transportation.
“The Smart Pod is a bold design concept that looks at the full potential of advanced technologies in electrification, automated driving and digitalized connectivity, delivered in a warm, tactile and luxurious manner,” said GM China and GM International Vice President of Design Stuart Norris.
Focusing on personal space and well-being, the Smart Pod is a fully autonomous electric vehicle built on the groundbreaking Ultium platform and the VIP electric architecture. It inspires with its unique proportions, offering comfort and plenty of space.
Rather than traditional headlamps and taillamps, the Smart Pod’s sleek exterior incorporates micro-LED lighting technology. Its dynamic wake-up lighting animation and sliding door welcome passengers when they approach, delivering a personalized and high-tech feeling.
Once inside, passengers are immersed in a premium environment. The Smart Pod’s airy roof and innovative glass lattice maximize visibility, creating a connected feeling with nature. With the innovative sleep seat, which fully reclines, the Smart Pod offers the most comfortable and efficient method of commuting. The multi-variable seating layout further facilitates networking and rest.
The interior also conveys GM’s sustainability philosophy, with the adoption of premium and natural materials. Deployable tables, enhanced noise-canceling technology, an ambient sound management system, an air purifying system and other thoughtful details further contribute to the first-class ambience and pleasant multi-sensory experience.
The Smart Pod epitomizes Buick’s bold thinking and exploration of an intelligent and connected future. Featuring a 50-inch retractable retina LED screen, the latest-generation virtual cockpit system provides a highly intuitive AI-enabled experience for in-car virtual assistance and seamless connectivity with the outside world.
Thanks to intelligent voice command and advanced eye-tracking technology, the smart cabin supports enhanced navigation and real-time integration with personal devices, and serves as a remote office. Through its artificial intelligence and machine learning capability, the concept vehicle adapts to the user, making personalized suggestions for a variety of functions – from infotainment to comfort to vehicle operation.
With a full complement of sensors, it integrates industry-leading hardware and software with a suite of safety features to ensure a safe, intelligent and relaxed personal mobility experience.
