“With the H1st Vision concept car, the human is at the centre of future mobility”

What is Software République?

Software République is an open innovation ecosystem created by six major companies¹ – Atos, Dassault Systèmes, Orange, Renault Group, STMicroelectronics and Thales – to help develop a European ecosystem for sustainable, sovereign and safe mobility. It also calls on the expertise of a number of start-ups.

Why was the concept car named H1st vision?

The name H1st vision stands for Human First Vision to reflect the consortium’s vision for future mobility that’s smarter, safer and above all centred on people – drivers, passengers and other road users.

What technologies are incorporated into this concept car?

In technical terms, H1st vision features more than 20 innovative technologies, from an all-new secure biometric access control system to predictive hazard alerts, optimised range and recharging, continuous monitoring of driver and vehicle health and an incredible audio system designed with French composer and performer Jean-Michel Jarre. The user experience really was at the heart of the entire process. 

To access the vehicle, for example, there's no need for a key, card or smartphone. The user simply creates a profile with their name, height, ID photo and video footage of them walking. This data is encrypted and stored in an ultra-secure virtual wallet built into the vehicle: the Digital ID Wallet designed by Thales. 

Once this is done, the user has secure access to the H1st vision vehicle and can unlock it remotely thanks to two authentication technologies: posture recognition (gait) then facial recognition. An avatar projected on the window, then on the centre console screen, greets the user and assists them with all the available features.  

Thales is responsible for the gait and facial recognition system, the digital driving licence, cybersecurity and orchestration, which is the entire automated process of organising and managing the system.

Is Thales involved in any other areas?

There are several. We’re in charge of cybersecurity for the electric charging system and the satellite call system, which uses a shark fin antenna on the vehicle roof to alert emergency services if the driver is unwell, even in locations where mobile network coverage is patchy or non-existent. We’ve also developed the onboard cyber detection algorithms, which detect potential cyberattacks against these connected vehicles in real time and propose appropriate remedial action.

How long did it take the teams from the various companies to create H1st vision?

It only took six months – which is record time for a project involving around 100 people – largely because there is a clear and solid governance structure in place. It's fair to say that the entire project has been an exercise in collective intelligence.