The 2012 Beijing Motor Show has begun and will host big names in the automobile industry from the likes of Audi and Mercedes Benz. A rather interesting name that has popped in the much awaited auto show is that of Chery and its unveiling of the @Ant. The strange concept car takes inspiration from the hardworking attitude of real life ants. The vehicle is capable of driving itself and can also do so by connecting with other @Ants.
According to Chery, the car works somewhat along the principles of cloud computing, where shared resources give way to a more coherent form of transport. The cars are able to ‘see’ each other if they’re in the same area and once the on board computers figure out that the cars are headed in the same direction, they will automatically connect to form a train. This will help save energy during travel as well as reduce traffic congestion.
Chery’s concept sits along the lines of two seater electric powered vehicles being showcased by the likes of GM and Renault. Its ability to connect with other @Ants, however, is what sets it apart. The cars’ systems use a network of data connections that automatically link @Ants (a maximum of 10 cars) to each other. However, there’s no telling what happens if a car in the train needs to break away for a stop along the way.
Chery’s concept does have its advantages in terms of saving energy and easing traffic congestion. However, if it is to ever hit the market, further research will need to be undertaken to make the concept truly viable as a production vehicle.
Despite its drawbacks, concepts like Chery’s are proof that the world is heading towards EVs. The need for cleaner and greener vehicles is so imperative that automakers are rushing to design and produce zero emission cars that will not only help turn the planet into a cleaner place, but will propel manufacturers to the top of the list of pioneering automakers.
Via: Carnewschina
