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Advanced electric drive, autonomous navigation and other technological advances will revolutionize the way we drive. PopSci presents stunning visions for the future of the automobile
Concept


"Modular mission" flexibility-the ability to rapidly revamp for a new task by simply swapping out gear-is already in the cards for future Navy warships. The same idea is at work in this all-purpose rescue vehicle, which is Inspired by the rescue x concept created for ford by the german designer robert engelmann.


Plug-and-Play Rescue Equipment

Between missions, job-specific pods filled with equipment for firefighting, emergency medical care or hazmat duties can be quickly attached to the chassis. The vehicle's diesel engine can also work as a 30-kilowatt generator for powering rescue equipment.


Indestructible Tires

Similar to today's Michelin Tweel airless tires, these use honeycomb-shaped polyurethane spokes to absorb shock and withstand gouging rocks and broken glass without getting a flat.


Autonomous Drive

Onboard sensors and a GPS unit guide the vehicle to its destination by the most efficient route with no input from a driver, leaving personnel free to provide emergency medical care.


Diesel-Electric Powertrain

As with prototype powertrains being developed for the military, a diesel engine powers electric motors, which then turn the axles. This gets rid of heavy drivetrain components while increasing power.


Advanced Off-Road Suspension

A beefed-up version of today's Bose suspension system, which uses electromagnetic motors in place of shocks and springs, makes off-pavement rescues easy while at the same time improving handling and making the ride smoother for both emergency responders and patients.

Tags: Cars, Feature, autonomous vehicle, diesel electric powertrain, future drive, gps device, May 2010, michelin tweel, off road, rescue, rescuers, robert engelmann

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Future Drive Concept: Rapid Response 2.0 was originally published by Popular Science - Cars. Read the full story by clicking here.