Portuguese 
English 
Spanish 
3 min of reading 
64 comments 
With Voice Commands, Mobile App and Just R$ 900, Developer Transforms a Classic Volkswagen Santana Quantum into a Prototype of an Autonomous Car, Preserving the Original Engine and Incorporating Innovative Technology.
If you think innovation is expensive, it’s because you haven’t heard of the developer Mateus Reis. With just R$ 900 and a lot of creativity, he transformed a 1989 Volkswagen Santana Quantum into an almost autonomous car. Yes, we’re talking about a true technological reinvention, made with a touch of nostalgia and an eye on the future.
The Sentimental Value of the Volkswagen Santana Quantum
It all started with an emotional connection. The Santana Quantum belonged to Mateus’s father, who passed away in 2012. The car, parked for years due to a collision, was more than just a vehicle: it was a piece of family history. For Mateus, restoring the automobile was not merely a mechanical job but a way to honor that memory.
In July, during a conversation with his partner Alan, the idea emerged: to transform the classic station wagon into something modern, almost like a “Brazilian Tesla.” Thus, they combined their passion for technology and cars to kick off the project.
-
For R$ 32,000, a brand new Hyundai car is a rival to the Kwid with a 1.2 engine producing 82 hp, 6 airbags as standard, multimedia with wireless Android Auto, up to 391 liters in the trunk, and a refreshed look for 2026 in India.
-
He bought a new car in 1983, locked it in the barn in 1988, and no one opened the door for 38 years until the family discovered what was stored inside and realized it looked like something out of a movie.
-
A 250cc motorcycle that can reach 560 km with a 14-liter tank, features disc brakes on both wheels and is among the most well-known in Brazil.
-
Man finds over 200 rare cars abandoned on a lot and tries to do the impossible in 8 hours with a surprise at the end.
The Stages of Transformation
Before any innovation, it was necessary to take care of the base of the Santana. The bodywork was restored, especially the front, which was quite damaged. The original engine, an AP-2000 with 112 hp, was preserved but received an upgrade: remote start via the app.
The magic began with the installation of hydraulic actuators on the pedals. These devices, controlled by microcontrollers, allowed for the operation of the accelerator, brake, and clutch via voice commands. Next, Mateus integrated a smart steering wheel with power steering and an electric motor, creating a system capable of responding to automated commands.
Technology and Creativity: How Everything Works
With a mobile app, Mateus eliminated the physical key of the Santana. The system allows for starting, controlling the pedals, and even the steering, all via voice commands. It’s almost like having a personal assistant to drive.
The journey isn’t over yet. The next step includes installing a camera with computer vision, which will allow the car to drive itself. According to Mateus, the goal is to create a system adaptable to any vehicle, transforming the concept of automation into something accessible for everyone.
How R$ 900 Was Enough
It’s hard to believe that such an innovative project cost only R$ 900. This was only possible because Mateus reused parts and used low-cost technology, demonstrating that with creativity, great feats can be accomplished.
Mateus’s project is already attracting the attention of other developers and technology enthusiasts. In addition to inspiring, it opens doors for the development of accessible adaptive kits, democratizing the concept of autonomous cars in Brazil.
The Volkswagen Santana Quantum, which was once a symbol of family, is now an example of innovation. Mateus Reis not only rescued his father’s memory but also showed that the future can be built with passion, ingenuity, and low cost. Elon Musk better watch out: the Brazilian is innovating with style and purpose.
Nóis da “terra brasilis” só não temos dindin pra comprar, mas criatividade nóis tem é de sobra…
900 reais é só o multimidia… Kkkkkkkk pura mentira… Kkkkk
Extraordinário
Precisamos mais técnicos e técnicologia