New Concept from Mazda
Mazda has introduced a new concept car, the Vision-X Compact, in Japan. This is a small urban vehicle that is 10 inches shorter than the Mazda2 model. The car is equipped with a conversational artificial intelligence that serves the role of a friend.
Design and Exterior
At the Japan Mobility Show, Mazda presented the Vision-X Compact — a stylish urban car that resembles a scaled-down version of the Mazda2. Like the Vision-X Coupe, the Compact features a fully enclosed radiator grille, accompanied by illuminated “fangs” and a lighted Mazda logo. Also notable are the compact headlights, digital mirrors, and clean bodywork.
Mazda did not provide many details about the car, but it has black plastic trim and aerodynamically optimized wheels. These are complemented by a panoramic glass roof and a rounded rear end.
Dimensions and Features
The concept has a length of 150.6 inches (3825 mm), a width of 70.7 inches (1795 mm), and a height of 57.9 inches (1470 mm), with a wheelbase of 99 inches (2515 mm). Thus, the car is 10 inches (255 mm) shorter than the Mazda2 and has a 2.1-inch (55 mm) shorter distance between the wheels.
Interior and Technologies
The minimalist design continues into the cabin, where a steering wheel with a flat bottom and a round digital instrument cluster are installed. Interestingly, the model lacks a multimedia system, as drivers are likely to use a smartphone.
Regarding technologies, Mazda envisions that the concept will have an empathetic artificial intelligence that will act as a companion. The company stated that this will allow people and vehicles to form “an emotional bond, similar to genuine friendship.”
Future of Technologies
Despite sounding somewhat futuristic, Mazda claims it is actively working on this because it wants to create a “genuine connection between people and cars.” As the company explained, the AI will act as a friend and say things like: “Great lane change” or “Hey, remember that coffee shop you mentioned last week? There’s an interesting road that will take us there.”
The company added that the AI will be able to learn and “read” your mood, so it can suggest the perfect playlist at the right time. It can also remain silent when you don’t feel like talking.
Plans for the Coming Years
While this is the future, Mazda is already taking steps in the near term. Specifically, Gemini will replace Google Assistant in a future software update. This promises to provide a smarter and more useful experience, as Gemini will be able to understand more conversational commands.
The integration of artificial intelligence into cars is becoming increasingly common, and Mazda’s approach to creating an emotional connection between the driver and the car could change the traditional perception of interacting with technology. It also opens up new possibilities for personalization and enhancing comfort during travel, especially in urban traffic conditions.