Multidisciplinary studio Seymourpowell has designed a concept for a "private shared" ride-hailing service, which features retractable partitions and air-purifying technology. 
Focused on offering passengers more privacy in ride-sharing services, Seymourpowell's driverless Quarter Car concept has four seats that can be separated by adjustable partitions running through its two central axes.
This configuration allows the interior to be split into four individual and sellable spaces, enabling singular riders to have their own walled-off area.
Passengers travelling in a couple can also book seats face-to-face or next to one another, while those in groups can book the entire vehicle.

Instead of opting for a typically rounded, aerodynamic design, the Quarter Car has a cubic exterior shape in order to make the most of the interior space. "With the onset of autonomous, connected, electric and shared mobility, it's time to start defining the first generation of vehicles designed specifically for mobility services," said Seymourpowell designer Jonny Culkin.
"Vehicles like Quarter Car will lead the way in defining a trend of 'private shared' vehicles; adaptable spaces that will improve business metrics and passenger experience in one hit," he added.

Riders who choose to book spaces in cars that are already partially full, which may involve waiting longer for pick-up, will be rewarded to ensure the occupancy rate is always high.
"A key issue within...