Undefined Audi AI:ME Concept Ride Review: Inside Look

The Audi AI:ME concept represents a bold vision for urban transportation, combining electric propulsion, Level 4 autonomy, and a remarkably spacious interior within a compact footprint. This showcar, first unveiled at Auto Shanghai 2019 and demonstrated at CES 2020, prioritizes passenger comfort and personalization in densely populated cities.

Compact Yet Spacious Exterior Design

Audi engineered the AI:ME to navigate tight urban streets while offering generous interior room. Measuring 4.30 meters long, 1.90 meters wide, and 1.52 meters tall, it matches the road presence of a typical compact car but boasts a 2.77-meter wheelbase—comparable to larger sedans like the A4.

Wheels positioned at the extreme corners minimize overhangs, maximizing cabin space without increasing overall length to more than a Volkswagen Golf-sized package. The low-slung, sporty hatchback profile features a panoramic glass roof that floods the interior with light, enhancing the airy feel.

• Length: 4.30m (169 inches) – Ideal for city parking.
• Wheelbase: 2.77m (109 inches) – Provides A3-beating interior volume.
• Height: 1.52m (59.8 inches) – Low center of gravity for stability.

This architecture supports a “2+X” seating layout, adaptable for two primary passengers plus flexible rear space for lounging, working, or cargo.

Electric Powertrain and Performance

Powering the AI:ME is a rear-mounted electric motor delivering 170 horsepower (168 bhp), paired with a 65 kWh lithium-ion battery. This setup enables multiple daily urban trips, emphasizing efficiency over long-range cruising.

Rear-wheel drive imparts sporty handling traits, complemented by adaptive dampers and low unsprung masses for smooth city rides. While not production-bound, engineers note that elements like this lightweight multi-material body could influence future Audis.

During our ride, the powertrain delivered seamless acceleration, silent operation, and precise control, whether in autonomous mode or manual via foldable controls.

Revolutionary Interior Ambiance

Sliding into the AI:ME feels like entering a mobile lounge. Sans center pillars, opposing doors pivot electrically for seamless access, creating an unobstructed pathway.

The cabin evokes Scandinavian minimalism with light fabrics, natural wood accents, and a vast glass roof. A prominent wooden shelf spans the front, overlaying black glass touch panels for controls and infotainment. Real plants in a rear pergola and magnetic holders for cups and plates enable in-transit dining.

Footrests deploy for relaxation, while configurable seating transforms the space for work, rest, or storage. The high waistline at shoulder level maximizes headroom despite the low roofline.

Advanced Human-Machine Interaction

Audi reimagines driver interfaces for an autonomous era. Infrared sensors track eye movements, gestures, and voice commands, allowing intuitive control—focus on a screen icon to select it.

A three-dimensional OLED display stretches across the windshield for immersive feedback. Touch-sensitive surfaces respond fluidly, and optional VR goggles provide entertainment during traffic halts. In our demo, we effortlessly ordered lunch via gaze selection, ready upon arrival.

For manual fallback, an aviation-style steering wheel and touch-pedal pads emerge when needed, supporting Level 4 geofenced autonomy.

Autonomous Urban Mobility Vision

Designed for megacities, the AI:ME achieves Level 4 self-driving in defined zones, handling all driving tasks without intervention. Users summon it via app, pre-setting ambiance, destination, and entertainment.

Audi envisions shared mobility over ownership; the car learns user preferences, customizes lighting, seating, and media accordingly. Post-trip, it autonomously returns to a depot, eliminating parking woes.

Our ride showcased flawless urban navigation: smooth lane changes, pedestrian awareness, and adaptive speeds, all while passengers relaxed.

Practicality for Shared Services

Customization drives the concept’s appeal. Facial recognition identifies users, adapting HVAC, seat positions, and even aroma diffusers. Multi-user profiles ensure seamless transitions in car-sharing scenarios.

Reconfigurable for productivity (desk mode), leisure (lounge), or utility (cargo), it extends living spaces into vehicles. Magnetic fixtures secure meals, preventing spills during dynamic maneuvers.

• Personalization via biometrics.
• App-based summoning and setup.
• Autonomous depot return.
• Modular seating for versatility.

Challenges and Production Prospects

Regulatory barriers delay full Level 4 rollout, but Audi highlights transferable tech: eye-tracking interfaces, ambient lighting, and ergonomic displays could appear in near-term models.

Not slated for production, the AI:ME influences Audi’s EV roadmap, proving compact autonomy viable. Ride quality impressed, with quiet cabin and planted handling boding well for future implementations.

Comparison with Modern Compacts

The AI:ME surpasses peers in space efficiency and tech, positioning it as a blueprint for tomorrow’s urban EVs.

Future Implications for City Driving

This concept heralds a shift: vehicles as service pods, not just transport. By prioritizing occupant experience, Audi addresses urban congestion creatively. Expect echoes in production Q-series EVs, enhancing shared mobility ecosystems.

Our ride affirmed its potential—effortless, engaging, and forward-thinking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Audi AI:ME concept?

A Level 4 autonomous electric urban vehicle designed for megacities, featuring a compact exterior and expansive, customizable interior.

Is the AI:ME going into production?

No, it’s a concept, but its innovations like interfaces and lighting may influence future Audis.

What powers the AI:ME?

A 170 hp rear electric motor and 65 kWh battery for city-range efficiency.

How does the interior adapt?

Via reconfigurable seating, magnetic holders, and user-learning AI for personalized experiences.

What autonomy level does it achieve?

Level 4 in geofenced urban areas, with manual controls for fallback.