Show me the Light: Open-source concept car débuts

Geneva – A new open-source car concept is taking a leaf from the popular notion of user-generated content usually associated with smaller gadgets and the internet. EDAG’s Light Car – Open Source model, which was unveiled at the recent Geneva auto show, features a new lightweight basalt-fibre structure, a rolling chassis, an electric drive system and an innovative lighting concept that are still in the early stages of their development. For this reason, the manufacturer says, the open-source nature of the project will allow other interested companies to work on the development of the car.

Light Car – Open Source is also set to change the model for purchasing a bespoke car. The car’s organic light-emitting diode lights at the front and back can be shaped to the driver’s taste, and can be used to communicate signals to other drivers, such as flagging up an accident ahead.

The Geneva auto show also revealed a number of high-end models, demonstrating the industry’s admirable resilience to the weathered demand in the new vehicle market. For a full round-up of the trends and launches at Geneva, see our comprehensive market report.