Tag Archives: concept

Kia Vision Meta Turismo is a sharp looking concept poised for the future

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Kia always likes to celebrate its milestones with concepts that pave the way for the future of automotive design and technologies on the inside. This week is the South Korean brand’s 80th anniversary, and predictably, they’ve gone to the lengths of materializing a concept that is one of the most impressive from their design studio.
Called the Vision Meta Turismo concept, the sports sedan is not merely a design exploration; it’s their “first bold glimpse into the future of mobility.” The car was unveiled at the Kia Vision Square in Yongin, South Korea, and the future iteration of the electric vehicle (most likely it’s not going to be gasoline-powered) will be dubbed EV8. Just like the EV5 and EV6, this one is based on the Opposites United design theme, and by the look of things, is the spiritual successor to the Stinger. Vision Meta Turismo revitalizes three core experiences: performance driving, immersive driving, and spacious interiors.

Designer: Kia

Kia is categorizing the concept as a performance driving vehicle, even though they’ve not shared many technical details, we assume it is a serious contender for their premium electric lineup sometime in the future. On the outside, the car has a very sharp silhouette with soft geometric elements on the surface and natural lines. This fuses well with the aerodynamic elements like the vertical fins and embedded air channels for optimized airflow, which are inspired by the touring cars of the 1960s. A short hood is contrasted with the long, torpedo-like, elongated shape for a spacious interior that is ultra-comfy. LED strips on the front blending into the nose section edge out of the main frame, while the taillights have a more muted setup reminiscent of the current-gen electric vehicles.

On the inside, the sports sedan concept has an airy lounge-inspired cabin encapsulated in a panoramic windshield that extends to the rear like a modern fighter plane. For a dynamic look, there is a crisscross support pillar running from the A pillars that visually segments the front and the rear sections. The concept car has an upholstered driving seat, while the other seats have an upholstered off-white cloth material skin. The driver-focused interior has a matching hexagonal yoke steering wheel with gear shifters, and the dashboard is done in the same premium leather finish. The lower section of the windshield displays all the vital driver’s information in the AR Heads-Up Display (HUD). All these elements, according to Kia, “reimagine the next-generation intuitive driving interface.”

The concept has three driving modes: Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer, which are not detailed by Kia and, in a way, are self-explanatory. Not much has been revealed by Kia, which hints that the probable EV sedan, having a long wheelbase and low profile, is going to manifest in some way as a production-ready vehicle. We are more than eager to learn more about the Vision Meta Turismo, and are sure of the fact that Kia is future-serious about this prototype.

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Lexus LS Goes Bold: Three Radical Concepts Redefine Luxury Space

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When Lexus rolled three radically different concepts onto the floor of the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, each wearing the LS badge, the message was clear: the future of luxury isn’t about four doors and a trunk anymore. A six-wheeled van with a convertible day bed in the third row. A single-seat autonomous pod that looks like it escaped from Minority Report. An SUV coupe that might actually see production. These are Lexus’s answers to a market that no longer wants what the LS was built to be.

Designer: Lexus

The context makes the radical pivot necessary. Much like Taylor Swift, the Lexus LS was born in 1989 and went on to redefine its category, but unlike the pop icon, the luxury sedan’s star has dimmed considerably in recent years. The brand sold fewer than 3,000 units annually in the US for the past three years, losing market share even against rivals facing the same headwinds. In September, Lexus announced a “final year tribute” for the existing fifth-generation car, effectively confirming what industry watchers already knew. The sedan era is ending, but the LS name still carries tremendous cachet and brand value as the badge that launched Lexus itself.

Rather than let that heritage fade, Lexus chose to reimagine what “LS” could mean. The three concepts presented in Tokyo replace “Luxury Sedan” with “Luxury Space,” each interpreting that brief in dramatically different ways.

The Six-Wheeled Van That Dares to Dream

The LS Concept, revealed via teaser images a couple weeks before the show, represents the most audacious reinvention of the luxury minivan formula yet attempted. This isn’t a tarted-up people mover with captain’s chairs and a nicer badge. This is a six-wheeled statement piece that looks more like a land yacht than a family hauler, with proportions that dwarf the luxury minivans currently popular in markets like China.

Much of that impact comes from the wheel configuration itself. Four smaller wheels cluster at the rear while two larger ones handle steering duties up front, creating what observers have called a “backwards Tyrell P34 look.” It’s probably the only time a Lexus van will be compared to a 1970s Formula 1 car, but the reference fits. The wheel arrangement does more than look interesting. The additional rear wheels potentially distribute weight more effectively across the long wheelbase required for three comfortable rows, while the larger front wheels maintain steering precision and road presence.

The exposed wheel arches feature chrome or polished metal trim that catches light and emphasizes the mechanical complexity underneath, celebrating the engineering rather than hiding it behind body panels. Sharp character lines run the length of the vehicle’s flanks, creating distinct upper and lower volumes. The greenhouse sits atop a substantial lower body, with blacked-out pillars creating a floating roof effect that’s become common in luxury vehicles but feels fresher here thanks to the unconventional proportions. The front fascia maintains Lexus’s spindle grille signature but stretches it horizontally rather than vertically, creating a wider, more planted stance that suits the van’s substantial dimensions. LED lighting elements integrate into the bodywork with minimal interruption, suggesting a future where lighting becomes part of the surface rather than discrete components bolted to the structure.

Inside, the LS Concept seats six across three rows, with the first row offering a somewhat bench-like layout while the second and third rows feature individual thrones upholstered in what appears to be premium materials. The interior demonstrates a deliberate progression from functional to luxurious as passengers move rearward, with the driver zone maintaining traditional automotive ergonomics while the rear rows transition into lounge-style seating that prioritizes comfort over conventional automotive packaging. The material palette appears to blend warm earth tones in the seating surfaces with cooler metallic accents on structural elements, creating separation between soft touch points and hard architecture.

The third row takes the concept furthest, with armrests that detach to allow the seats to convert into a reclining day bed configuration. The leg rest extends while the seat backs transition closer to flat, creating a genuine rest space rather than the token reclining function found in conventional three-row vehicles. This transformation suggests Lexus studied yacht interiors and private aviation more than automotive precedents, prioritizing the ability to fully relax during extended travel over maximizing passenger count.

 

The lighting design throughout the cabin uses vertical striping patterns that echo traditional Japanese shoji screens, with illuminated surfaces creating ambient glow rather than point-source lighting. These vertical elements repeat on the exterior as well, establishing a consistent design language that bridges interior and exterior spaces. The dashboard features nested screens in a layered configuration that suggests depth rather than the typical flat panel array, with physical controls integrated around the displays rather than banished to capacitive touch zones. Despite the futuristic styling, this isn’t an autonomous fantasy. The LS Concept features a proper steering wheel flanked by a pair of screens and a pleasing number of actual physical buttons, suggesting Lexus envisions this as something a human would actually drive.

The Micro: When Personal Mobility Gets Absurdly Personal

If the six-wheeled van represents luxury maximalism, the LS Micro swings to the opposite extreme. This single-seat autonomous vehicle exists as pure concept exploration, the kind of mobility solution that automakers love to sketch but rarely build.

The Micro appears to run on three wheels based on the revealed images, with a vertically oriented battery pack or cargo compartment mounted along its spine that can slide out for easy access. This central spine element serves as both functional storage and visual anchor, creating a clear organizational logic for the compact vehicle’s interior packaging. The exterior surfaces flow in continuous curves broken only by minimal character lines, with the transparent canopy creating an almost bubble-like greenhouse that maximizes interior volume perception while maintaining a compact exterior footprint.

The seating position looks genuinely comfortable rather than compromised, with a warm cocoon-like environment and touchpad controls integrated into both armrests in a configuration that recalls Captain Picard’s chair on the bridge of the Enterprise. The seat itself appears to wrap around the occupant in a 270-degree embrace, with padding that extends beyond typical automotive bolstering to create a genuine relaxation space rather than just transportation seating. Lexus even managed to fit multiple cupholders into the compact package, a luxury amenity not afforded to Galaxy-Class starship captains. The material treatment suggests a mix of technical fabrics and soft leather, with the touchpad controls finished in what appears to be brushed metal or high-quality plastic that maintains tactile feedback despite the digital interface underneath.

The color palette inside the Micro stays deliberately neutral, with warm beiges and soft grays dominating to create a calming environment rather than the typical concept car explosion of saturated hues. Ambient lighting appears integrated into the structural ribs of the canopy, washing the interior with indirect illumination that changes the space’s mood without creating harsh shadows or glare. The exterior styling leans heavily into sci-fi territory, with smooth surfaces and minimal details that wouldn’t look out of place in Minority Report, though given that film is now set just 29 years in the future, perhaps that’s less of a compliment than it once was.

Lexus describes the Micro as “micro-mobility that allows you to move freely in small streets and alleys of cities” and “a relaxing space for a new value of private travel experience.” That use case suggests ride-hailing services in dense urban environments rather than personal ownership. Given the autonomous technology requirements and the narrow market appeal, both scenarios remain theoretical for the foreseeable future. The Micro’s compact dimensions and autonomous capabilities could theoretically allow it to access areas traditional vehicles cannot, from pedestrian-friendly zones to narrow historic district streets. The single-seat configuration eliminates the social dynamics and scheduling compromises inherent in shared mobility, offering a middle ground between private car ownership and riding in someone else’s vehicle.

The Coupe: The One That Might Actually Happen

Of the three concepts, the LS Coupe stands the best chance of reaching production. Industry watchers have speculated for more than half a decade that the fifth-generation LS’s successor would take the form of a high-end crossover rather than another traditional sedan, and this concept bears all the hallmarks of that rumored vehicle.

The design melds the elevated seating position and easy entry of an SUV with the flowing roofline and proportions of a sedan, complete with a trunk rather than a hatchback opening, though Lexus describes it more as an extending shelf than a conventional cargo area. Four doors provide access to what appears configured as a four-seat interior, though the rear bench looks like it could accommodate a third passenger without much compromise. In a premium touch reminiscent of Rolls-Royce, the rear doors open backwards for easier entry and exit.

The interior continues design themes Lexus explored in the Sport Concept coupe revealed the same day, with a colorway divided between the driver and passenger areas to create distinct zones within the cabin. The driver side appears finished in darker, more focused tones that emphasize the task of driving, while the passenger side transitions to lighter, more relaxed materials that signal the leisure aspect of luxury travel. This asymmetric approach represents a departure from the typical automotive interior that treats both front occupants identically, acknowledging that driver and passenger have fundamentally different relationships with the vehicle.

The seating surfaces showcase what appears to be a combination of perforated leather in high-wear zones and smooth textile panels in areas that benefit from stretch and comfort. The perforation pattern isn’t just functional ventilation but creates a geometric texture that catches light differently depending on viewing angle, adding visual interest without relying on contrasting stitching or piping. The rear seats maintain the same material approach but appear to offer more adjustment range and cushion depth, confirming this vehicle prioritizes rear passenger comfort despite its four-seat configuration.

Nested instrument panel screens sit in front of a yoke-style steering control rather than a traditional wheel. The screen configuration potentially hints at a future instrument and infotainment layout designed to rival BMW’s Neue Klasse digital interface approach, though production versions typically dial back the concept car ambition. The layering of these displays creates a sense of depth behind the yoke, with primary driving information appearing to float in the foreground while navigation and vehicle status occupy background layers. Physical controls appear concentrated on the center console and steering yoke spokes, maintaining tactile interfaces for frequently used functions rather than forcing everything through touchscreen menus.

The exterior proportions demonstrate careful attention to the balance between SUV utility and sedan elegance. The roofline starts its descent behind the B-pillar, creating a fastback silhouette that maintains rear headroom while achieving a lower drag coefficient than a traditional SUV profile. The rear haunches swell slightly outward from the cabin, muscular shoulders that suggest performance capability without resorting to aggressive body cladding or fake vents. The wheel arches appear sculpted into the body rather than applied as separate elements, creating a cohesive surface that flows from front to rear without interruption. The strongest indicator of production intent comes from an observation about what the concepts include rather than what they promise. The LS Coupe features visible seatbelts in all the marketing imagery and show floor presentations, a detail neither the six-wheeled van nor the autonomous Micro show.

What Luxury Space Actually Means

These three concepts reveal Lexus’s challenge and opportunity in equal measure. The LS name carries enough brand equity to justify continuation, but the original brief no longer works in a market that has decisively moved away from large luxury sedans.

By reinterpreting the badge as “Luxury Space” rather than “Luxury Sedan,” Lexus creates room to explore what premium personal mobility could mean across multiple form factors and use cases. The six-wheeled van targets the ultra-luxury multi-passenger market that traditional minivans never quite captured, the Micro explores personal urban mobility as a premium experience, and the Coupe directly addresses the luxury crossover segment that has cannibalized sedan sales industry-wide. Whether any of these concepts reach production remains uncertain, but the LS Coupe’s seatbelts and rumors of a high-end crossover successor suggest at least one interpretation of “Luxury Space” will make it to dealerships.

Each concept also reflects different regional market priorities. The six-wheeled van speaks directly to Asian luxury markets where chauffeur-driven vehicles remain popular and rear passenger comfort takes priority over driver engagement. The Chinese market in particular has embraced luxury MPVs in ways Western markets never did, with vehicles like the Mercedes V-Class and Lexus LM commanding premium prices and generating substantial sales volumes. The Micro addresses urban mobility challenges most acute in dense Asian and European cities where parking costs remain prohibitive and congestion pricing schemes make large vehicles increasingly expensive to operate. The Coupe takes the safest bet by pursuing the luxury crossover segment that currently dominates premium vehicle sales globally.

Every luxury brand from Bentley to Rolls-Royce now offers or plans to offer a high-riding crossover, recognizing that buyers want elevated seating positions and practical cargo space more than they want low-slung driving dynamics. The LS Coupe’s sedan-influenced proportions and trunk configuration position it as a more sophisticated alternative to the increasingly common luxury SUV, offering crossover practicality without abandoning the design language that made Lexus sedans distinctive. For a nameplate that once redefined luxury sedans, this evolution from four doors to multiple futures seems fitting.

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DJI Glide Hybrid Drone Concept adds Glider-Wings for Better Range and Energy-Efficient Flying

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You’ve seen quadcopters, and you’ve seen drones used for crop dusting or aerial surveillance – the DJI Glide is a fusion of both those drones. Designed by Baptiste Grenon, the DJI Glide proposes a battery-efficient design courtesy the presence of wings that help the drone stay stable and achieve flight at high altitudes without being an energy-guzzler. The drone still has the familiar quadcopter format, but also includes wings, giving it a hybrid design that might just translate to a longer battery and better range.

Designer: Baptiste Grenon

The DJI Glide’s unique design includes two standard propellers, and two propellers built right into the drone’s wings, which double as propeller guards during flight. It doesn’t look like the wings themselves move, although Grenon has included what looks like rudders at the wing-tips for better maneuverability. The drone still has vertical take-off and landing, but the airfoil cross-section of the wings gives it much more aerodynamics while the drone hurtles forward at top speed.

The implication therefore is that the DJI Glide is more suited for FPV flying as opposed to cinematic flight. A gimbal-mounted Hasselblad camera on the front records your PoV, while cameras on the front, back, and bottom give the drone spatial awareness, allowing it to maneuver on its own without colliding into objects – perfect for having the drone return back to base after its battery runs out.

The battery sits on top, plugging right into the drone’s back to power it in flight. Given the conceptual nature of the drone, battery specs are purely conjecture, but I suppose having wings helps conserve the drone’s battery by giving the aerial vehicle the lift it needs while flying. The wings also present a trade-off in terms of maneuverability, hindering complex movements like moving in reverse or tight turns.

The propellers at the rear justifiably come without any bumper guards, given that they’re effectively shielded by the wings ahead of them. There is, however, a small technical challenge, and it has to do with the drone’s overall size. Having a drone with a wingspan means the DJI Glide isn’t a very compact little device. It therefore comes with detachable wings, which may prove to be a challenge during fast flight. Losing a wing to a loose clamp effectively cripples your drone, since it means losing a propeller too. Collisions may protect the propeller from damage, but the part where the wing and drone join together will take all the impact – something that highly affects your drone’s overall lifespan.

That said, the foldable format does make the DJI Glide fairly portable, allowing it to be flat-packed for shipping. The durability trade-off for efficient flight feels fairly valid – if the obstacle-avoidance algorithms are strong, there really shouldn’t be a problem. Plus, the drone doesn’t need a runway to take off or land, which definitely helps it in the long run for people flying recreationally.

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Retrofuture Revelations from Japan: A Journey Through Time and Imagination

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Retrofuturism, a captivating blend of past visions and future possibilities, has long fascinated the human imagination. It represents a unique genre where artists and designers, with their ingenuity, envision what the future might look like from the perspective of their own time. This concept shines brightly in the extraordinary illustrations from Japan between the 1930s and 1960s, a period rich in creativity and innovation. These illustrations are images and windows into a world of unlimited dreams and super-charged imagination.

Via Dark Roasted Blend

Human-Powered Flying Machine

The human-powered flying machine is a captivating vision of eco-friendly personal transportation. This design leverages human energy for flight, merging the simplicity of a bicycle with the exhilaration of flight. The Japanese text in the illustration reads, “空を駆ける夢の自転車” (A dream bicycle that runs in the sky). This phrase captures the essence of a time when the sky was not the limit but the beginning of endless possibilities. The machine’s sleek, aerodynamic form suggests a lightweight construction essential for actualizing such a concept.

In today’s world, advancements in lightweight materials, battery technology, and AI-assisted flight controls bring this dream to reality. Innovations like the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft and drone technology reflect this vision. The focus on sustainability and individual mobility aligns well with current trends in transportation innovation. This concept’s emphasis on human power also highlights a growing interest in reducing carbon footprints, making this design a likely candidate for future development.

Versatile Ground Vehicles

The ground vehicles featured in these retrofuture illustrations showcase the imaginative engineering of that era. The Japanese text describes them as “どんな道も走破する万能車” (All-purpose vehicles that conquer any road). This encapsulates a vision of vehicles that can navigate any terrain, from rugged mountains to smooth highways, with practicality and ease. The robust and rugged designs focus on durability and adaptability, essential traits for exploration and practical use.

Modern advancements in autonomous driving technology, AI-driven navigation systems, and robotics make such versatile vehicles a reality. Companies are developing all-terrain vehicles equipped with sophisticated sensors and AI to handle various environments autonomously. These innovations are revolutionizing industries like construction and exploration and have potential applications in everyday commuting, especially in remote or challenging terrains. These designs’ blend of functionality and futuristic aesthetics points to a future where versatility and technology are seamlessly integrated.

Space Station Platforms

One of the most inspiring elements of retrofuturism is the vision of space station platforms as self-sustaining habitats. The Japanese text “宇宙に浮かぶ未来の都市” (Future cities floating in space) suggests a future where humanity has extended its reach far beyond Earth. These illustrations depict vast, intricate structures designed to house human life, showcasing a blend of advanced technology and architectural innovation. The idea of living in space, with self-sustaining ecosystems and AI-managed operations, reflects an ambitious and forward-thinking outlook.

Today, this vision is inching closer to reality with the International Space Station (ISS) and planned lunar and Martian colonies. AI and robotics play crucial roles in maintaining these habitats, ensuring safety, and optimizing resource management. These advancements are paving the way for long-term human presence in space. The concept of space station platforms represents not just a technological leap but a monumental step in human evolution, opening new frontiers and possibilities for future generations.

Sleek Futuristic Watercraft and Weaponry

The sleek futuristic watercraft and weaponry illustrated in these retrofuture visions highlight a perfect fusion of aquatic design and advanced technology. One notable design is the “Aribird S,” described in the Japanese text as “水中を駆ける未来の船” (A future boat that runs underwater). This phrase captures the essence of an era that dreamed of high-tech performance and adventure seamlessly integrated into everyday life, with an aesthetic appeal that intrigues the viewer. These designs’ vibrant colors and dynamic forms reflect an aesthetic that values functionality and visual appeal.

These watercraft are envisioned with advanced propulsion systems and streamlined bodies, capable of high-speed travel and maneuverability. In today’s world, innovations in maritime technology are beginning to mirror these designs. Concepts like hydrofoils, autonomous underwater vehicles, and advanced naval vessels are becoming more common. These illustrations’ emphasis on sleek, aerodynamic shapes and cutting-edge technology indicates a future where high-tech performance and adventure are the norm.

“Mighty Patrol” Car

The “Mighty Patrol” car presents a vision of futuristic law enforcement that combines sleek design with advanced communication systems. The Japanese text refers to it as “未来のパトロールカー” (Future patrol car), suggesting a high-tech vehicle designed for efficiency and speed. The streamlined body, advanced lighting systems, and integrated communication technology reflect an era that envisioned law enforcement as a blend of technology and efficiency.

Integrating AI, drones, and advanced surveillance systems will likely make such vehicles a reality as technology evolves. Modern police vehicles incorporate some of these elements, with AI-driven data analysis, real-time communication networks, and enhanced mobility features. The “Mighty Patrol” car embodies the future of policing, where technology plays a central role in maintaining order and safety, improving the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.

Advanced Fighter Jets and Space Vehicles

The depiction of advanced fighter jets and space vehicles in retrofuture illustrations showcases a future of aerial and space combat marked by speed, agility, and advanced weaponry. The Japanese text “空を支配する未来の戦闘機” (Future fighter jets that dominate the sky) reflects an ambition to achieve superiority in both air and space. Sleek, aerodynamic shapes, advanced propulsion systems, and futuristic weaponry characterize these vehicles.

With advancements in aerospace engineering, AI, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), these designs are nearly becoming a reality. Modern fighter jets incorporate AI for enhanced decision-making, stealth technology, and advanced weapons systems. Similarly, space vehicles designed for defense and exploration are becoming more sophisticated. These illustrations’ relentless pursuit of technological superiority highlights a future where control of the skies and space is paramount.

Amphibious Vehicles

The amphibious vehicles, blending automotive and nautical design, offer a glimpse into the future of versatile transportation. These vehicles are depicted as capable of traversing both land and water, reflecting a vision of seamless transition between different terrains. The Japanese text, “陸と水を行き来する万能車” (All-purpose vehicle that moves between land and water), captures the innovative spirit of these designs.

In modern times, the development of multi-terrain vehicles and amphibious transport solutions is gaining momentum. Concepts such as amphibious cars, boats with wheels, and versatile rescue vehicles are becoming more practical with materials and propulsion technology advancements. The sleek designs and robust capabilities of these retrofuture vehicles suggest a future where transportation is as adaptable as it is innovative, addressing the needs of diverse environments.

Circular Cities and Underground Worlds

These illustrations’ circular cities and underground worlds represent a visionary approach to urban planning. The Japanese text, “地下に広がる未来の都市” (Future cities expanding underground), suggests a rethinking of how space is utilized in urban environments. These designs feature vertical integration, subterranean spaces, and advanced transport systems, reflecting an ambition to create efficient and sustainable living spaces.

With increasing interest in sustainable and efficient use of space, concepts like vertical integration and underground cities are gaining traction. Modern urban planning explores the potential of building downwards and upwards to maximize space use, reduce environmental impact, and enhance livability. The futuristic architecture and integrated transport systems in these illustrations reflect a holistic approach to city living, where innovation addresses the challenges of urbanization.

Flying Saucers

The depiction of flying saucers, such as the “Gakushiyu,” captures the imagination with its promise of advanced air travel. The Japanese text reads, “空飛ぶ円盤” (Flying saucer), evoking images of sleek, circular aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing. This vision reflects an era that dreamed of conquering the skies with revolutionary designs.

While the exact design of these flying saucers may differ, the concept of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft is becoming a reality with developments in drone technology and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Companies invest heavily in urban air mobility solutions, envisioning a future where flying cars and air taxis become commonplace. These flying machines highlight the future of urban air mobility, where the sky is no longer the limit but a new frontier for innovation.

Multi-Wheeled Explorer Vehicle

With its robust design and versatile capabilities, the multi-wheeled explorer vehicle is a vision of future exploration vehicles. The Japanese text describes it as “探検用の多輪車” (Multi-wheeled vehicle for exploration), indicating a design built for navigating diverse and challenging terrains. The vehicle’s numerous wheels and durable construction suggest a shape that reflects advanced engineering, while including multiple rockets hints at the vehicle’s formidable combat capabilities. This illustration captures the thrill and intensity of air combat, inspiring visions of high-stakes dogfights in the skies.

The Amphibious Supercar: Versatility Redefined

With its sleek, futuristic design, the amphibious supercar showcases a vehicle capable of traversing land and water. This concept blends the luxury and speed of a sports car with the adaptability of an amphibious vehicle. With its bold lines and dynamic composition, the illustration highlights the car’s ability to transition between terrains seamlessly. The vibrant colors and detailed rendering emphasize the vehicle’s innovative features, symbolizing versatility and cutting-edge technology.

The Quirky Dinosaur Transport

We’ll end with this image featuring a quirky yet functional dinosaur-shaped transport vehicle. With its playful exterior and practical interior, this design combines imagination with utility. The vehicle’s dinosaur form, complete with a drill in its mouth and a cockpit for passengers, suggests a future where transport is efficient but also fun and engaging. The whimsical design and detailed features make this vehicle memorable, reflecting a future where creativity and practicality go hand in hand.

More to come…

The continued exploration of these retrofuture illustrations from Japan offers a captivating glimpse into the boundless creativity and imagination of the past. Though conceived decades ago, these visions still inspire us today, reminding us of the endless possibilities. Stay tuned as we delve further into the world of the retrofuture, uncovering more hidden gems and fantastical designs that shaped the dreams of yesteryear.

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Modular and multi-functional shelf and mirror is an aesthetic addition to your space

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Normally, the shelves that I look for or I actually get have one purpose only: to hold and store my books. And I have a lot, and I mean a lot, of books. But there are times when I want to be able to get something that is also decorative or can be a conversation piece (although that still hasn’t happened yet since I still need for it to just be functional). A lot of designers now are creating ideas, concepts, and sometimes actual products, that can be multi-functional and modular and shelves are no exceptions.

Designer: João Teixeira

Wave is a conceptual design for a shelf that also doubles as a mirror. Even better, it is modular so you can arrange it into different layouts, depending on your need, your preference, or your mood. Just don’t expect a full mirror of course since the shelf part and the shape of the entire thing can be a bit obtrusive. But if you’re just looking for a surface that can hold your books, decorations, and other knick knacks that happens to have a mirror attached to it, then this is something you will be interested in.

Since the concept is named Wave, the shape of the mirror and the shelves is wavy and reminiscient of the letter S. It is modular yes but no matter where you place the different parts, you’ll still get the wave. The renders show that there are around 4-5 parts that you can assemble and play around with, depending on where you want to place the shelves part or if you want it to be horizontal or vertical in orientation.

If what you really want is to look fully in a mirror, you may be annoyed with the way this is designed. But if this gets made into an actual product, those who will buy it will probably just see the mirror as part of the whole design of the multi-functional shelf. You can also probably only just place a few objects on it (most likely not part of my book collection) but again, this is more for the added aesthetics rather than a fully functional piece of furniture.

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Disc-like smart device uses light, vibration to provide alerts for the hearing impaired

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Smartphones and smart speakers are pretty useful devices for times when emergencies and disasters are upon us and you need to be alerted to the dangers. But for those who are hearing-impaired, they may not be able to get fast access to information, especially if they’re not looking at their screens. Light flashes and vibrations are the fastest way to catch the attention of these individuals so devices that utilize these features can be helpful to both the hearing-impaired and regular hearing people.

Designers: Kim Myeonjin, Noh Gaeun

Lamptok is a concept for a lighting solution that can be attached to a smartphone or any surface in order to give information to the hearing impaired about a dangerous or important happening. It’s basically a notification medium that uses lighting and vibrations to alert the user to any disaster or emergency. Think of it as a griptok for your phone except its main purpose is not for you to hold your phone properly but to give lighting and vibrating cues for times when it is needed.

The round device can also be adjusted from something that can fit onto your finger to something that can be securely attached to any surface. It can be charged wirelessly, is MagSafe compatible, and has a USB-C port for wired charging. During times of disaster, it can be integrated with alert systems and also has built-in pictograms to help the user quickly understand what’s going on. It also has stronger vibrations than the smartphone so it can also be used as a sort of alarm clock. It is able to detect abnormal sounds as well and will alert the user to it. And it can also alert you to notifications on your phone.

Lamptok can be connected to your smartphone through Bluetooth so you are able to better control and customize it. The renders show the device in different colors like olive green, black, white, and orange. It is probably also designed to be water proof since there’s a render of it attached to the bathroom tiles for when you’re taking a bath and still need to be aware of what’s happening. This should be useful for hearing impaired people so hopefully this gets turned into an actual product.

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Narc robot concept helps detect contraband in public spaces

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One of my family’s favorite things to see at places like malls and airports are the drug sniffing dogs. We always joke about wanting to pet them, although of course we’re not supposed to. But there are times when I pity them since they have to work hard and it can even be dangerous for them. There are of course other technologies and devices that can be developed so the load of detecting contraband does not fall solely on them or on the staff that are monitoring the security check machines in the terminals.

Designer: Junwoo Lim

This concept for a robot that can serve as a contraband detection tool can serve both cargo terminals and passenger terminals. Narc will be able to help machines, dogs, and humans detect contraband like explosives, drugs, and other dangerous materials that are not supposed to be in public places like airports and terminals. You probably didn’t like being called a narc (if ever you were called one) during your school days but this device, which looks like a robot with four legs, gets the job done.

For the cargo terminals, Narc can serve as the detector for small packages in the conveyer belt so the first pass will not need human intervention. It has a small x-ray button at the bottom and 90 degree rotatable legs and a movable body that can go up to 500m up and down. It can scan the small cargo by moving around the cargo rails so humans can just focus on monitoring larger cargo. For passenger terminals, the Narc can move around, like those robots going around malls asking if you need help. But this time, they really act as a “narc”, scanning random people and if they detect contraband, they will alert security staff.

Once they spot someone “suspicious”, the staff can use the portable ion scanner to detect if the person really is carrying contraband. A sample can even be placed in the middle of the suction port if it needs further checking. There may be some privacy issues involved here but that’s probably a problem that can be resolved or fixed by the airport or terminal if ever this concept gets made into an actual product.

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AI-powered robot vacuum concept brings both brains and heart to your cleaning chores

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A lot of people like me leave the house early in the morning and return late at night just to rest and sleep. I rarely have time and energy to actually clean the house thoroughly. But of course you need to make time to get rid of dust or else your health and your peace of mind will be affected. Robot vacuums are the best friends of those who need a bit of clean up without exerting much energy and we’re seeing a lot of options and concepts for this kind of cleaning tool.

Designer: Raye

Hestia is a concept for one such tool, named after the Greek goddess of the hearth and the home because it protects your home from germs and dust. It is basically a robot vacuum cleaner but it uses AI technology to make the cleaning process easier and more convenient. The AI, together with the ultrasonic sensors located on both sides, helps the cleaner set a path to clean your home and also avoid obstacles (probably as long as you don’t leave random things lying around your floor). It has two rear wheels that can give it a good “kick” while the front wheels lets it go forward and sideways.

The vacuum itself looks like a small, flat robot with a small head on top. It has an external display that shows off the “emotion” of the robot with its camera and lidor sensor while the Demeter CPU enables the smart space cleaning feature. The default face is its normal, tranquil mode while the cleaning mode shows off an angry face because of the dirt and dust she needs to clean. When the battery is low, it shows off a weak face. The monitor also displays the battery level and the cleaning process.

The Hestia robot vacuum cleaner uses anodized aluminum and polycarbonate material so you get a more “sophisticated” but clean and minimalist look. The charging station which looks like the robot’s mother ship is able to empty the dustbin so you can just gather all the dirt and dust inside it for disposal later on. It seems like something that will greatly benefit people like me who are too busy (or sometimes lazy) to do regular cleaning.

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One-piece silicone measuring cup concept saves space in your kitchen

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If you do a lot of cooking (by choice or by necessity), you probably have a lot of kitchen tools lying around. But not everyone has a spacious kitchen or cooking area so having instruments and accessories that are space savers can be a big blessing. We’re seeing a lot of pretty simple yet innovative solutions to small ticket kitchen items like silverware, cooking tools, accessories, etc. They might not revolutionize your kitchen but they do provide convenience (and space) which can sometimes make all the difference.

Designer: Hatice Esra SUNGUR

One such product, or at least concept, is for a measuring cup called Boi. If you cook regularly, then you’re in need of different sizes of measuring cups. But sometimes they take up space and if you have a small kitchen or storage, then that can be a problem. This concept solves that by designing a measuring cup that is just technically a one-piece silicone cup. Because of its material, it is flexible so the size can change according to what you need.

The idea for Boi is to use the flexbile material and the slider to adjust the size according to the measurement that you need for your ingredients and your recipe. The maximum capacity of the measuring cup is 250 millimeters and it is 20 centimeters long and 6 centimeters high. There are notches and labels in the cup so you know what size you need, ranging from 1 cup (250 ml), 1/3 cup (80m ml), 1/2 cup (125 ml), 1/4 cup (60 ml), and 1/8 cup (30 ml).

The renders shows the measuring cup to have an orange color but it’s easy to visualize it having other bright colors. This kind of kitchen tool will not only help you save space but can save you water and dish detergent since you’re just washing one item. It’s a pretty simple but interesting solution if you want a more space-saving and convenient tool for your cooking adventures.

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SME smartphone concept aims to aid the visually impaired

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Smartphones are mostly created for those of us that are seeing or at least not visually impaired. But for those that want to be more inclusive, there are not that many similar products in the market that would cater to those that have some sort of visual impairment. Good thing that there are product designers out there who are thinking of such things and if their concepts are viable, I really hope that they get the funding to produce devices like this or at least major telecom brands adopt these ideas and create product lines for those that may need smart devices to communicate but are unable to use the usual ones.

Designer: Eslam Shafik

The SME is one such concept for a smart phone for the visually impaired. Unlike regular smartphones that are usually in a rectangular or square-ish shape, this one looks more like a smart speaker or a smart home hub. This a specific design direction that will make it easy for them to carry it around on the palm of their hand without a concern for its orientation. It also has a fabric mesh so you get a tactile grip on the smartphone and the materials used do not conduct heat so it’s comfortable for the user.

It even has a walking mode so the built-in high-quality camera will be able to guide the visually impaired as they’re walking. The voice assistant, Loutaz, can issue warnings when there are obstacles at a distance of not less than 50 centimeters. This assistant, powered by ethical AI, can also read out messages, social media posts, and other digital assistance you may need. It has a base for charging and to dock it when you’re not moving so it can still act like a smart home hub when you’re at home.

If further developed, this can be a pretty interesting, not to mention, useful device for those who need something like this. The 3D modeling seems to have dealt with the ergonomics and design aspect of the SME so what needs to be enhanced are the actual features and functions that will be truly helpful for the visually impaired.

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