Car-in-a brain

In the movie The Talented Mr. Ripley, trains serve as a mediator of location, which in turn discloses changing relationships. The train becomes the starting point for changes in these relationships—shifting from mutual favor to conflicting feelings, and eventually, from conflict to unity. The train is the space emerging new emotions.

In the real world, this spatial concept can extend to vehicles. This dynamic is particularly noticeable during commuting. When we start our commute, we often feel as though we are already at work, even while still in transit. Similarly, when leaving work, a sense of freedom begins, even though we’re still in the vehicle. However, there’s an emotional and behavioral gap. We feel like we’ve left work behind, but we don’t immediately engage in home-like activities.

The concept of spatialization in vehicles could resolve this disconnect. For example, if self-driving cars become widespread, people could work or play in their cars, choosing when to disembark based on their needs. You could finish the first phase of your work in your car despite arriving destination, or stay all night playing games in your self-driving car.

Though it might seem trivial, this would be a powerful feature for consumers. We often overlook routine but essential needs, like phone security or long-lasting notebook batteries—features that Apple emphasizes in its ads.

This is why self-driving cars must become popular. The spatialization of vehicles represents the ultimate evolution of cars over the next 100 years, and Modular EVs could pave the way.

However, the challenge remains: how can we minimize the gap between vehicle and destination right now? The solution varies depending on the situation. If you’re the driver, [solution here]. If you’re not the driver, mobile content can help bridge the gap, even if it’s not integrated into the car system. Could we address this by creating new in-car services?

This is a thought-provoking challenge for automakers.