Volkswagen Group is testing a self-driving car in real-life urban conditions in a new research project.

The research project aims to explore how passengers experience rides in a self-driving vehicle

The Gen.Urban autonomous car is being piloted in VW’s home town of Wolfsburg as part of a study to explore how passengers experience rides in a self-driving vehicle

Gen.Urban is designed without a traditional steering wheel or pedals. The test participant sits in the driver’s seat, while a trained safety driver monitors the vehicle from the passenger seat. If necessary, the safety driver can intervene at any time using a specially developed control panel with a joystick.

The current test phase initially involves Volkswagen Group employees and will last for a period of several weeks.

The urban test route in Wolfsburg city area replicates real-world traffic scenarios, from intersections to roundabouts. The project will examine how passengers experience riding in a self-driving vehicle without a traditional steering wheel or pedals – and what requirements this creates for future vehicle concepts.

Key areas under focus include how time is spent in a self-driving vehicle; which digital features best support work, entertainment, or relaxation; and whether people feel comfortable.

The findings will contribute to the development of future interior and user experience (UX) concepts across the group’s brands.

Nikolai Ardey, head of Volkswagen Group Innovation, said the “key to a positive customer experience is to build trust – through meaningful interaction, a relaxed atmosphere and intelligent assistance systems that respond precisely to the needs of passengers”.

He explained: “Ultimately, technology should fit people, not the other way around. We will benefit from these insights across the entire group in the long term.”