The IBM system, which goes by the name of "Artificial Passenger," can use touch-sensitive controls to perform basic functions throughout the vehicle like rolling down the windows, controlling the media player and answering the phone. The camera mounted in the middle of the steering wheel can perform similar functions by reading the lips of the driver. But the real fun with this system is the beatbox integration.

Think of it like Guitar Hero on your steering wheel. The touch controls are at 10 and 2, where your hands should be regardless, allowing you can tap out beats with the accompanying music. Redundant controls and a lip-reading camera are also integrated into the passenger side, so when you do have a passenger, they can enjoy the fun as well. Check out the video above for a full demonstration of the very strange system. [Autopia]

So far, Karimov has been able to start the car and even drive it a few hundred meters, admittedly at a very low speed. His work has been sent to researchers in Germany, where Karimov may conduct future research into improving his design.

Karimov's work differs from other compressed air cars in that the air powers a traditional internal combustion engine. [Via Pravda Ru]

Photo credit: Vanessa Pike-Russell