The latest 'sphere' concept from Audi may be the most advanced and utilitarian of the bunch.
The fourth in the series of battery-electric vehicle concepts — a self-driving sportback crossover — can transform into a small pickup capable of carrying bicycles or other gear. And it features an augmented reality interface.
The Audi Activesphere concept — like its three predecessors, the Grandsphere, Urbansphere and Skysphere — is intended to demonstrate the brand's vision of autonomous electric vehicles, the integrated technologies they may offer, and potential flexibility.
The concept has a transitioning rear deck: The aggressively raked glass slides forward to expose a tailgate. With the tailgate dropped and the glass forward, the two-row crossover's cargo space is transformed into a mini truck bed, good enough to haul sporting equipment, Audi says.
With the rear glass in sportback position, the Activesphere features a pop-up ski rack integrated into the roof.