Automotive supplier, Visteon Corporation, has revealed its vision of mobility in the year 2020 with the release of a new concept vehicle called the ‘e-Bee’. The vehicle is designed to explore new lightweight architectural as well as alternative ways of using a vehicle, including car-sharing, private ownership and short-term rental.

The e-Bee challenges conventional vehicle architecture by re-thinking the position of the climate system, resulting in reduced weight and a substantially increased cabin space. The integrated climate module combines the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) unit with the refrigerant system, including an energy-efficient heat pump. Its position outside the cabin allows for new interior design options including an easy user experience with the vehicle’s electronics and comfort features, designed to mitigate distraction.

The Visteon e-Bee Concept Vehicle

“From its driver interface to its compact and innovative climate system, the e-Bee is an exercise in efficient, forward-looking design for new mobility uses,” said Tim Yerdon, Visteon’s global director of innovation. “The vehicle will be showcased at customer and industry events throughout Asia, the U.S. and Europe, where it will be the centerpiece in Visteon’s discussions with customers and partners about future technology trends and needs.”

With driver priorities in mind, the cockpit space has been maximized for occupants by fundamentally re-thinking the technical elements of the interior. The EV-ready HVAC system is located in the engine compartment; the airbags are positioned in the headliner; and the driver displays and controls are supported locally by a structure of composite material, rather than a full-steel cross-car beam.

The e-Bee’s interior is designed for sustainability, incorporating recycled and bio-based resin and natural fibre hybrid materials and also uses recyclable expanded polypropylene material to further reduce vehicle weight.

Full details of the vehicle are available on the e-Bee website