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Volkswagen Group has unveiled the James 2025 virtual cockpit concept at CeBIT, demonstrating piloted driving of the future.

Once the automatic driving mode is activated, the steering wheel, seating position and light coding change, and a large central screen gives all the vehicle occupants details of any planned driving maneuvers. There is also a second screen with touchpad operation on the console of the central tunnel providing additional infotainment functions.

The automobile and the computer, are moving closer together and as Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn says, “our cars are already mobile computer centers, with 1.5 kilometers of cables, more than 50 control units and the computing power of 20 highly advanced PCs. Now we face the considerable challenge of making mobility even more intelligent and more networked together with the IT industry.”

Winterkorn also added: “The car must not become a data monster. We already protect our customers against a wide variety of risks such as aquaplaning, micro-sleep and long, time-consuming congestion. I clearly say yes to Big Data, yes to greater security and convenience, but no to paternalism and Big Brother…”