Autonomous Car Interior From Context and Exterior to Lighting and Experience

Abstract

Problem
The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation due to technological advancements, especially in self-driving vehicles. This shift presents a unique challenge: designing an interior for autonomous vehicles. The goal of this project is to contribute to the change in the automotive industry by redefining the traditional driver-centric experience into a pleasant journey for passengers. Enhancing the user journey experience during long-term journeys while staying true to the Land Rover brand identity is a key focus.

Goal
The primary objective of this project is to create a human-centred interior concept for fully autonomous vehicles. This concept aims to promote user comfort and well-being during extended journeys. Several sub-goals support this aim. These include forming a vision of future mobility and defining a unique Land Rover user experience. Understanding user expectations for long-term rides and conducting a market analysis to guide the design direction are also important. Ultimately, the goal is to develop a validated concept through user testing.

Analysis
The context analysis utilized a DESTEP framework to explore demographic, economic, social, technological, environmental and political factors shaping the mobility sector. There is an increasing demand for efficient and electric vehicles. This background informs the project its future vision, which predicts a convergence between public vehicles and privately owned cars. The brand analysis of Jaguar Land Rover shows its evolution from utility-focused vehicles to modern luxury offerings. The company emphasises sustainability and user experience. Both, the future vision and brand focus, present new opportunities for design innovation.

Design process
The design direction is based on insights gathered from a context analysis, the Land Rover brand DNA, non-driving-related-taks (NDRT) literature and a concept car market analysis. The focus is on the aesthetic and functional aspects of the autonomous vehicle. This process involved analysing existing (concept) vehicle exteriors and defining key interior functionalities. Concerning the interior, special attention was given to creating an inviting ambiance, particularly in terms of lighting design. This lighting design aims to enhance the overall user experience by supporting the concerning NDRT. The prototyping phase detailed the evolution of both interior and exterior design. Functional elements such as seating, work surfaces, and tailored lighting systems were integrated to meet user needs during long journeys.

Evaluation
User testing was conducted to validate the interior lighting concept and assess its impact on user experience and task performance. Results showed that adequate lighting significantly improved the visibility, comfort and mood while working. The overall pleasantness of the environment also increased. Users preferred well-lit settings and provided specific preferences for lighting configurations that reduce shadows and enhance visibility. Conclusions from the user tests indicated that optimising lighting placement and adjusting light intensity would further enhance the
interior design.

Final design
The design suggests implementing ambient lighting that is placed above and beyond the user. The focus lighting should also be positioned above the passenger but more centred over the seating area. The brilliance layer is mainly integrated into the doors and floor of the vehicle. Additionally, all light layers should have adjustable light characteristics such as intensity and colour.
Finally, various lighting scenarios are shown to demonstrate the importance of flexibility for multifunctionality.