Fiat-Chrysler has developed its first self-driving electric car concept. The new model concept is called the Portal and it made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada in January, 2017. It has been showcased at other events since, including the North American International Auto Show. The Portal concept is unique as it includes exciting futuristic features for its minivan model, such as facial recognition, which allows for customization of various features, and communication systems between vehicles and passengers.
The Design Goals of the Portal
The Portal’s primary design goal was to create a concept vehicle that would attract the millennial generation. The design is meant to be an affordable and customizable option for millennials that would evolve along with their needs and wants in a vehicle. The target demographic for the Portal is young twenty-somethings starting out on their own, just beginning to build families and careers. Fiat-Chrysler has the opportunity to create lifelong loyalty in millennials by designing a vehicle that meets their unique needs.
The Portal’s Battery Power
As an electric car, the Portal will run on a chargeable battery. With a full charge, the vehicle will have a range of 250 miles. The Portal also is designed to have a very quick recharge time, as it can drive for 150 miles with just 20 minutes of charging time. This electric vehicle runs on a lithium-ion battery pack, capable of 100 kilowatts per hour.
Self-Driving Capabilities and Social Features of the Portal Concept
One of the most exciting features of the Portal concept is the self-driving capability of the vehicle. In addition to its ability drive on its own, the Portal also features a camera inside the car for occupants to take group photos and selfies. Also included in the Portal concept is a communication system designed for two or more vehicles to communicate as well as a passenger to passenger communication system.
Personalization Features of The Portal
The Portal design concept also has facial and voice recognition abilities. The voice and facial recognition features can allow each driver or passenger of the vehicle to customize their driving experience by allowing each occupant to program radio stations and other music preferences according to their tastes. Drivers and passengers have the ability to customize the destination according to their preference, and they are also able to control other features, such as lighting and temperature. These customized preferences of the vehicle occupants will also stay in place even if the occupant chooses to move to a different seat.
The Future of the Fiat-Chrysler Portal Model
The future is bright for the Portal model concept. Fiat Chrysler plans to either produce the Portal concept in its entirety, or create a very similar vehicle incorporating many of the Portal’s features. According to the Fiat-Chrysler CEO, Sergio Marchionne, consumers can expect this new futuristic vehicle to make its debut sometime after 2018. It is possible consumers may see this product launch within the next five years.
“IMG_1556” by K. Chan is licensed by CC BY 2.0
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