The Real-Life Batmobile? Shape-Shifting Audi E-Concept Changes Size At Push Of A Button

Luxury car maker Audi have unveiled their latest concept vehicle that has Batmobile-like technologies - including being able to extend at the push of a button.

The new machine, named Skysphere, is the first of three 'sphere' EV concepts that the German manufacturer will present over the coming months.

To give passengers the maximum amount of freedom, the Audi Skysphere concept was designed for two different driving experiences: a grand touring experience and a sports experience. This makes use of a spectacular technical detail - the variable wheelbase.

Electric motors and a sophisticated mechanism with body and frame components that slide into one another make it possible to vary the wheelbase itself and the exterior length of the car by 250 millimetres. At the same time, the vehicle's ground clearance is adjusted by 10 millimeters to enhance comfort and driving dynamics.

With the touch of button, the driver can take advantage of their freedom and choose their own driving experience - either they pilot their 4.94-meter-long e-roadster themselves in "Sports" mode with a reduced wheelbase, while the rear-wheel steering ensures that the vehicle remains extremely agile despite its dimensions. Or they can choose to be chauffeured around in a 5.19-meter GT in the autonomous "Grand Touring" driving mode while enjoying the sky and the scenery, maximum legroom, and the services offered by a seamlessly integrated digital ecosystem.

In this mode, the steering wheel and pedals move into an invisible area; the feeling of space in the concept car opens up completely new realms of possibility for such a sporty convertible. Meanwhile, the Audi Skysphere automatically keeps an eye on the road and traffic with its sensor system and drives the occupants safely to their destination.

The vehicle also takes care of everyday tasks that go beyond the ride itself. For example, the autonomous Audi Skysphere concept picks up its passengers with information about their current destination and independently handles parking and charging.

Audi will host the public world premiere of the Skysphere concept on Friday, August 13, as part of Monterey Car Week.