Shanghai expo displays flying car, vehicle that can read emotions

Using a system known as Real-time Emotion Adaptive Driving (R.E.A.D), a car uses internal cameras and electrocardiogram sensors to read your emotions and adjust its environment accordingly.

Developed by Korean carmaker Kia, which is partly owned by Hyundai, it's made its debut at the Chinese Import Expo in Shanghai.

Wu Yanbing who is a marketing strategist at the Korean carmaker says, "The temperature, the lighting, the sound, and even the vibration of the seat inside can be adjusted, so that you can adjust the space to best suit you."

The car is also able to analyse and produce results showing how happy you are.

The vehicle was developed in partnership with the MIT Media Lab and claims to be the first system of its kind in the world, engineered in preparation for a world of autonomous vehicles.

"I think that the development of this technology will greatly increase people's quality of life," says Yanbing.

The emotionally intuitive vehicle is not the only car making an appearance. Kia's 'Futureon' car is also on display, inspired by Chinese design and featuring a scale-like grill meant to evoke a dragon's skin.

Another offering dazzling attendants at the event is the Aircar - a flying car designed by Slovakian engineer and pilot Stefan Klein.

It completed its inaugural test flight in late October in Slovakia and is aimed at consumers with a thirst for adventure.

"This aircraft is very stable and has very good characteristics for maneuverability and engine running (is) perfect," he says.

The Aircar features a propeller in the back and wings that can fold into the body of the car, allowing it to maintain the width of a normal car when not in flight mode.

Designed to be flown like a regular plane, Klein says it allows pilots to make a transition to flying the Aircar without additional training.

"If it can fly, then it won't get stuck in traffic. Also, it'd be faster and more convenient," says Wang Yongli, a passerby taking pictures of the Aircar.

Nearby, luxury classic auto dealer Bund on the Boulevard is showing off five restored cars, many decades old, including one of the world's first sportscars, the 1916 Stutz Bearcat.

"What is unique is that particular car is what started the sports car craze today," says Bund on the Boulevard CEO, Charles Bronson.

Bronson says it's his second year participating in the Expo, and that he hopes to be able to break into the Chinese market with the restored luxury cars.

The coupes, sedans, and convertibles sell in the millions and are often used as investment vehicles for the ultrawealthy.

With China's rising economy, Bronson says, he hopes that some will begin purchasing his vehicles.

This is the second year Shanghai is hosting the expo, meant to rebrand China as a global customer and promote the country as a proponent of free trade.

(Source: AP) 

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