When you think of transportation in the near future, you probably dream of flying cars or hoverboards since that’s what we see on sci-fi movies and shows. Even though there are experiments already on that kind of vehicles, we’re probably still a few years away from that. But there are also concepts and experiments on a more grounded, so to speak, kind of public transport that is more practical and realistic but also futuristic.
Bubblic Public is a project that conceptualized a modular and lightweight kind of transportation system. It is meant to be on-demand and can fit the needs of whomever will be hailing the single-module design vehicle. It is basically made up of extendable bamboo stem-inspired chassis and airbags that is flexible enough that it can be used as passenger transport, delivery vehicle, or even a mobile smart farm. It can adjust to the size and needs of the end users during different time periods.
The design inspiration is “like bubbles that appear out of nowhere” since it is meant to show up to users when they order it. It is made of military-grade TPU but is also easily replaceable if some parts are damaged because of its modular design. It has inflated bubble seats when functioning as a passenger transport and the front, back, and side rows can be opened at the top. Package bubbles will be used if it is hailed as a delivery transport.
There will be an app where people can join a rideshare group or ride the nearest available Bubblic Public. That is where you can also hail one for your delivery or smart farm purposes and the vehicle will be transformed according to your need. It is an interesting concept and one that we may actually see in the near future. Maybe eventually there will be even be a flying bubble so it will stay true to its name.
There are random square boxes on wheels and then there are some that make an impression. Onshore in North America there are a few trailers that have left lasting imprints but now an Australian caravan builder is making heads turn with the new drop-dead gorgeous iteration of a travel trailer that’s prepared for off-roading and presents panoramic views of the surroundings when docked.
Australia-based On the Move Caravans is constantly inspiring the generation of adventurers to go further and longer to experience the best the Aussie backcountry has to offer with a range of its overland vehicles. Its list of much-loved Aussie-built models is now joined by Crossfire 4.7 trailer, built overseas with an Australian heart and mind.
The distinguishing characteristic of the Crossfire 4.7 trailer is its compact, unibody, woodfree design that’s engineered to be 100 percent weatherproof and durable for exploring the unexplored. But it’s the generous array of windows – on the lateral sides – and a couple on the back and front, that makes the panoramic views of the surroundings possible when you’re camping and the elements aren’t playing fair on the outside.
Featuring triple-composite construction, the trailer is designed for those who seek adventure with the comfort of home on the road. For this, the 4.7m-long Crossfire 4.7 packs a comfortable queen memory foam bed, dining cum lounge, a bathroom, and two – indoor and outdoor – kitchens. The trailer sits on a Desert Master chassis combined with an independent wishbone suspension and 265/75 R16 tires that prepare it to ride well beyond the tarmac.
Entry into the trailer is through the door with a security screen. On one end is the comfortable bedding for two, with a lounge cum dining area – comprising two leather upholstered seats with individual tables – in the center. Continuing further up on the other side is the internal kitchen provided with a 105-liter fridge and a dual-burner induction cooktop, the bathroom alongside comprises a sink, shower and cassette toilet.
While the trailer is apt with 200-liter fresh water and 100-liter gray water tanks, its efficacy for extended stays is assured with the power backup possible using 200Ah lithium battery, 200W solar panels, and 2000W inverter. On the Move Caravan adds style and functionality to this trailer by outfitting it with a slide-out external kitchen complete with a three-gas burner and a sink. There is no official word on the price or when the Crossfire 4.7 is likely to go on sale, but it is going to be a quick seller when it does.
Kia’s unveiling of the Concept PV5 and PV7 marks a major milestone in electric vehicle development, targeting a 2025 release. These models blend modern aesthetics with practical design, catering to diverse urban transport and logistics needs. The PV5 and PV7 are designed with both scalability and versatility in mind, making them perfect for various business applications, from passenger transportation to cargo delivery.
Designer: KIA
The PV5’s exterior features sleek, aerodynamic lines and a striking two-tone color scheme that conveys a futuristic and professional look. Large, seamless windows enhance visibility and contribute to the high-tech aesthetic, while the minimalist front design with integrated LED headlights adds a touch of sophistication. The vehicle is available in three body types: Basic (Passenger), Van (Delivery), and Chassis Cab, providing flexibility for businesses that require different configurations. The Basic model prioritizes comfort and space, featuring wide double doors and a flat floor to maximize interior room. It is ideal for urban passenger transport, including taxis and ride-sharing services.
KIA Concept PV5-R
Inside, the PV5 offers a spacious and innovative environment. Ergonomic seats can be configured in multiple ways to meet various needs, and they fold flat to provide additional storage space when necessary. The minimalist dashboard has a digital display that integrates all essential functions, offering the driver a streamlined and efficient interface. Sustainable materials used throughout the interior contribute to a luxurious feel and reflect Kia’s commitment to eco-friendly design. The large touchscreen display in the center console ensures easy access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings, enhancing the connected driving experience. The flat floor design of the electric platform further enhances versatility and space efficiency, making it easier for passengers with mobility issues or those carrying heavy cargo to enter and exit the vehicle.
Kia Concept PV5 Basic (Passenger)
The PV5’s Van (Delivery) model is tailored for the transportation of small and medium-sized cargo, featuring ample storage space and wide rear doors for easy access. This model is particularly suited for service industries and delivery businesses, offering a reliable and efficient solution for urban logistics. The Chassis Cab variant offers maximum flexibility, allowing businesses to customize the vehicle for specific needs, such as mobile workshops or specialized service vehicles.
The PV7, a larger sibling in Kia’s PBV lineup, extends these innovations with greater cargo space and advanced features tailored for more extensive transport needs. Both models reflect Kia’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle design, offering practical solutions for various commercial uses. The PV7 builds on the versatility of the PV5, providing more room and possibly additional configurations to meet diverse business demands.
Kia Concept PV5 Van Interior
Kia Concept PV7 is Kia’s second PBV and boasts the largest cargo space in the lineup.
Kia’s PV5 and PV7 concepts also hint at future advancements with the planned PV5-R model, incorporating autonomous driving technology. This innovation promises to enhance the appeal of PV5 and PV7 across various industries, offering a modern and efficient solution for urban mobility.
Kia Concept PV5 Basic (Passenger) is a perfect solution for urban passenger transportation such as taxis, ride hailing/sharing, and vehicles for people with disabilities.
Overall, Kia’s PV5 and PV7 concepts represent a significant step forward in the electric vehicle market. Their versatile designs, scalability, and focus on passenger comfort and cargo space position them to meet the diverse needs of businesses and individuals. The anticipated 2025 release marks an exciting milestone for Kia as it continues to innovate and lead in the electric vehicle sector.
LEGO Technic has displayed its profound affinity for performance cars in the past month or so. The latest to rise in their famed list is the LEGO Porsche GT4 which exists because of a special cause. It’s a part of the Porsche 4Kids program which aims to allow young car enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the new all-electric GT4 e-Performance. This will be done through the Porsche 4Kids holiday program held from July 30 to August 18 at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart.
Surprisingly the LEGO supercar is not a part of the Ultimate Car Concept Series that has similar LEGO sets like the McLaren P1 and Mercedes-Benz G Wagon. Unlike other Technic models, this one is not up for grabs and can only be tested out in real-time at the museum. Also, mark your calendars on 6 August for the special event hosted by Porsche GT4 e-developer Björn Förster and Lego designers Ann Karring and Aurelien Rouffiange.
As Jenny Simchen from the Porsche 4Kids programme at the museum explained, “We give the kids the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Porsche and Lego, test the GT4 e-Performance as Lego racing drivers, and play an active role themselves.” The kids and adults can interact with the remote-controlled performance Porsche and other Technic models to learn more about Porsche’s tech innovation.
So far there are no details about the brick count of this exclusive set, the scale version (we assume it’ll be a 1:8 model), or the overall dimensions. LEGO Technic and Porsche have kept the surprise element for this one till the set is explored by eager kids at the museum. The only thing known is that tickets for the special event can be booked online and priced at $30.
Building LEGOs was something I loved as a child. I could spend hours putting together intricate and mesmerizing LEGO builds, that did have the potential to fall apart in mere seconds. However, LEGO is no longer simply considered child’s play. Masterbuilders and creators spend days and weeks building precise and astounding LEGO creations that will truly blow your mind away. And, this collection of LEGO designs is dedicated to cars! We’ve put together a collection of exquisite and finely detailed LEGO builds inspired by cars. These creations will have motorcar aficionados drooling at the mouth!
1. LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set
Meet the LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set – one of the latest additions to LEGO Technic’s collection of motorsports replicas. The build is a 1/8 scale model that you can build piece by piece using 1642 individual LEGO bricks. The LEGO model is 13 cm tall, 63 cm long, and 26 cm wide. It features a stark black color, leaving the carbon parts unpainted, which cuts down on some weight.
2. LEGO McLaren P1 Hybrid Super Car
LEGO Technic just built a 1:8 scale model of the McLaren P1 hybrid supercar, amped with loads of details inside out. It features a 3893-piece format, and it has a price tag of $449. The detailed 3.8-liter V-8 piston engine is paired with a seven-speed transmission with 2 shifter paddles, adjustable rear spoiler, functional suspension, and working dihedral doors. The LEGO build was created in association with McLaren Automotive to mimic even the smallest of details to perfection.
3. LEGO Batmobile
Designed by TaeYang Lee, this LEGO Batmobile draws inspiration from the movie’s fascinating rollercoaster plot. He used Mecabricks, a LEGO modeling tool to build this amazing build. The creation is much like the on-screen Batmobile, and it is based in a dark and gloomy world, with a sinister environment. The Batmobile has a matte black color, with toughened wheel rims, and a reinforced bumper build for the kill.
4. LEGO Bentley Blower
The Bentley Blower is one of the icons of pre-war racing elegance and power, and LEGO is paying tribute to its 100th anniversary and infamous design. The LEGO Ideas Bentley Blower is designed by LEGO builder ‘N.ik.Le.go.’, and it perfectly captures the old-world charm of its powerful predecessor in a scaled-down and compact form. This LEGO MOC is made using 707 bricks, and is pretty uncomplicated compared to the other LEGO builds.
5. LEGO Peugeot 9X8
LEGO builder Brick-A-Brac celebrates Peugeot’s 9X8 and built his own LEGO build of the 9X8 supercar. Made using 1320 parts, the car measures 20 inches long. It is equipped with an extraordinary amount of detail and has all the branded graphics on its body. It has a sleek design, commendable size, and loads of attention to detail, making it a must-have gem for LEGO + car enthusiasts to have!
6. LEGO McLaren F1 Car
Meet the LEGO replica of the 2021 season Formula-1 car. It is really quite jaw-dropping and is nine times the size of the collectible LEGO version which was quite a hit. The 1:1 LEGO variant is at another level altogether and requires a lot of time and effort to be built. It took 1893 man-hours to put the 288,135 LEGO bricks together, creating a 5.7-meter-long, 2.4 meter-wide structure.
7. LEGO FedEx Iconic Truck
This LEGO FedEx iconic truck was made using LEGO bricks to celebrate FedEx’s 50th anniversary. The company has a workforce of around 500,000 employees, as well as a fleet of 700+ aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles. This incredible LEGO build pays tribute to the company. It is white in color with a FedEx logo on the front and the side. It also has a diamond-shaped DOT hazardous chemical flip sign on the front.
8. LEGO McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna
The LEGO form of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna was added to the LEGO Speed Champions and Technic lineup. It serves as a stunning tribute to Ayrton Senna – an undisputed legend of motor racing. The set includes 693 pieces and has a Senna Minifigure on the podium, with the winner’s trophy, and a plate engraved with the photo and quote. McLaren is next to him in power mode.
9. LEGO Back To The Future Time Machine
Meet the LEGO Back to the Future Time Machine! This one is better than ever and more detailed. It includes a Flux Capacitor light brick, gull-wing doors, and printed dashboard dates. You can add the different equipment from the different parts of the movie – including the lightning rod from the first film, and the hood-mounted circuit from Part III.
10. 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons Set
This adorable little 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons set pays tribute to the first-ever Vette which rolled out on June 30, 1953. It has a beautiful build accentuated with a bright red exterior, which perfectly displays the original key details of the real version. These little details include the hard or open-top configuration, opening hood, and the truck that accommodates the V8 engine replica with a spinning radiator fan.
LEGO Technic is on a roll this year with back-to-back impressive releases that are a treat to the eye for motorheads. I was utterly impressed with the detailing of the McLaren P1 LEGO set released a few days ago and now the Mercedes-Benz G 500 joins the ranks. This one is also part of the Ultimate Car Concept Series, poised to be one of the best sports car collectibles in a 1:8 scale.
The G 500 celebrates the 45th anniversary this year and LEGO Technic wasn’t going to let this opportunity slip. The result is a G 500 PROFESSIONAL Line model that is a 2,891-piece set for passionate builders. This set will also begin shipping from August 1 for a price tag of $250. Almost half the price of the P1 set and an absolute steal if you are into the off-roading SUV from the house of Mercedes-Benz. The good news is you can pre-order it right now.
LEGO has again delivered its promise of authentic details and recreation of even the most intricate sections of the 4×4 behemoth measuring 8.5 inches high, 16.5 inches long, and 8 inches wide. Under the hood is a replicated 6-cylinder inline engine mated to a 7-speed gearbox having drive, neutral and reverse settings. The internal mechanics are further hones in the form of a working steering wheel and raised suspension. The opening doors come with working locks, along with an opening tailgate and hood to reveal even the finer interior details. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the addition of a ladder, spare wheel and roof rack to the mix.
Although the G Wagon has been around for more than four decades, the LEGO team decided to create this Impressive LEGO iteration on the 2017 model. That makes sense when it comes to visual presence as the 2018 version had smaller wheels and a bit lower ground clearance.
The world of yachts is largely centered around successful businessmen and rich retirees. But a designer in his youth believes the young, dynamic, and tech-savvy should also have a yacht premeditated to their needs and discerning tastes. And so, the concept yacht Hype-R is born.
From the looks of it, it doesn’t deviate too much from what we have seen in the yachts that have taken to the waters. But unlike them, youth-focused Hype-R is synonymous with luxury and modern lifestyle, which vividly appears in how it allows the users to transition from entertainment to relaxation seamlessly.
The lavish and future-proof Hype-R concept yacht is designed by Davide Benaglia for the Feadship’s Young Designer of the Year competition. Not starkly different in approach but made with outrightly different intent, the Hype-R is 220 foot long and is designed to meet contemporary challenges while keeping the charm and style of the yachts intact. ”I envision the future of yacht design to continue its current trajectory,” Davide notes.
To make it appear traditional yet deviate from the norm, the Hype-R is flooded with uniqueness and modernity, which would appeal to the digitally-sound and young clientele. Suggesting how the idea for the yacht like this came to be, Davide said, “I have found the perfect fusion of…two (love for cars and architecture) perspectives in yacht design.”
The Hype-R is like a sports car for the waters, influenced by the designs of geniuses like Pininfarina and Giugiaro. Its exterior is very yacht-like with sleek lines defining the style carried on in the innovative features. The upper deck of the Hype-R has a sunset lounge that offers panoramic views of the breathtaking waters while the residents watch the sun fade away in the crimson horizon.
The sundeck is reserved for the techie-owner. It’s outfitted with a living room and private study. Each space has been specifically designed to serve a distinct function such as the beach area that’s usable to host a movie evening or a party in the discotheque. The highlight of Davide’s yacht may be the entertainment cum beach area, but it’s the youth-visioned idea of the Hype-R that would set a new vision in the industry.
The road to electrification strangely lacks enough two-wheelers. While the electric movement has seen a whole slew of automotive companies jump on board, the EV spectrum only covers cars and last-mile e-scooters and e-bikes. The motorcycle everyone is familiar with hasn’t seen an electrification… the reason? A combination of a lack of demand, and a lack of infrastructure. Even then, there are companies looking to bring an electric powertrain to the motorcycle category, while also redefining the aesthetic of these motorbikes in a way that allows people to differentiate between gas and electric two-wheelers.
Inspired by Tesla’s mission to bring eco-friendly cars to the mainstream, Brooklyn-based Tarform is setting its sights on sustainable motorcycles. The Vera is not only electric, but it’s also crafted with recyclable materials and natural fibers, minimizing its environmental impact.
The Vera’s design is a head-turner. It balances classic motorcycle aesthetics with a modern twist, echoing the design DNA of Tarform’s previous creation, the Luna. The clean lines and sculpted bodywork convey a sense of sophistication, while the lightweight build (around 360 lbs) promises agility and maneuverability in city traffic. Visually, it’s evident that the Vera sits well within cafe racer territory, but there’s a refined sense of design that makes it stand apart from gas-powered motorbikes. The surfaces, although curvy and aerodynamic, are exceptionally clean. Everything is designed with intent and with sleekness. The silhouette looks distinctly classical, but the form language and surfaces are exceptionally modern, from the slick tank-to-seat integration, the halo-shaped headlight, and a rather unusually pretty split mud-guard on the rear wheel.
The Vera’s stunning design is matched by its impressive performance capabilities. The electric motor propels the bike from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, delivering an exhilarating rush of acceleration. With a top speed exceeding 85 mph and a peak torque of 120 lb-ft, the Vera provides ample power for navigating cityscapes or conquering challenging terrain. An air-cooled system keeps the motor from overheating, ensuring reliable performance even in demanding conditions.
The fuel tank gets replaced by a battery that gives the Vera a surprisingly good range for e-bikes. The motorcycle boasts a 100-mile range on a single charge, making it ideal for everyday commutes and weekend getaways. The 8 kWh lithium-ion battery can be fully charged in just 2 hours using a Level 2 charger, ensuring you’re never stranded for long.
A keyless ignition system adds convenience, while a 3.4-inch digital display dashboard provides essential information like speed, battery level, and navigation. 4G connectivity allows riders to connect their smartphones for navigation or entertainment.
The Tarform Vera addresses a key barrier to electric motorcycle adoption – affordability. With a starting price of $16,000, it positions itself as a more attainable option compared to some high-end electric motorcycles on the market. This strategic pricing makes electric motorcycle technology more accessible to a wider range of riders, potentially accelerating the shift toward sustainable urban transportation.
LEGO Technic has some impressive supercar builds under the Ultimate Car Concept Series and a new one joins the rank for motorheads to crave about. This 1:8 scale model of the McLaren P1 hybrid supercar boasts a lot of details inside out. Craftable in a 3,893-piece set format, the LEGO kit carries a price tag of $449 which is not surprising in the LEGO world.
Every penny is justified with the detailed 3.8-liter V-8 piston engine mated to a seven-speed transmission with 2 shifter paddles, functional suspension, adjustable rear spoiler and working dihedral doors. The set is designed in association with McLaren Automotive to emulate even the tiniest of details like shades of yellow or precise aerodynamic curves to the last millimeter. Remember it’s not easy to replicate these things in a small-scale creation.
According to Tobias Sühlmann, Chief Design Officer, McLaren Automotive, “It’s amazing to see so many of the elements from the original P1 brought to life by the LEGO team for the LEGO Technic McLaren P1. We worked on multiple variations of the car to test different designs. We also faced a huge challenge with the iconic butterfly doors because they needed a new mechanism to stay open.” Another perk is that each of the scaled McLaren cars comes with a unique serial number that reveals special behind-the-scenes content for passionate auto lovers.
Like all other LEGO Technic creations from the past, this one will be initially available to LEGO Insiders and with a special goodie – a McLaren P1 logo to flaunt. This cool set will be up for grabs starting August 1st for Insiders and post-August 7th anyone can buy the LEGO McLaren P1 for their shelves. Just as a refresher only 375 McLaren P1s ever rolled out of the product lines and this true-to-life replica is a testament to the hypercar’s desirability among purists.
Creating extreme stuff from junk is a special skill that YouTube channel ‘Make It Extreme’ possesses. Their Monotrack bike made from a single recycled car tire was something of a shocker and they’ve upped the ante with another custom build. Called the Electric Monowheel this is a Herculine version that positions the rider inside the wheel.
The obvious challenge in making this big wheel was actually creating a perfectly round wheel measuring 9.1 inches in diameter. Due to the large shape, the metallic wheel acts as a base for the rubber tires salvaged out of a motorcycle and go-kart. These three recycled tires are connected to make the final giant wheel.
The chassis of this unique ride is the centric circle that stays stable even when the outside wheel is in motion. The trick here is to attach three rollers and a plastic encasing on which the wheel spins. To put it simply, just take for reference a hamster wheel. The power for this monowheel is derived from a go-kart’s electric motors attached to the tire. This explains the use of go-kart tires that are non-slip and provide transmission to the wheels without any wheel spin. The steering input is translated instantly to the movement of the wheel and so is the throttle input via the two controllers.
The current build has a better torque of the electromotion that is attributed to the faster-reacting motor. This is a major improvement over the earlier version. According to the makers, the vehicle feels very amazing to drive even though it is a bit dangerous if you don’t know how to handle it. There’s some good news for DIYers who are interested in this project as Make It Extreme is in the process of preparing the detailed plans of the monowheel motorcycle. That means you’ll have all the groundwork served on the platter for you to build on.
. We worked on multiple variations of the car to test different designs. We also faced a huge challenge with the iconic butterfly doors because they needed a new mechanism to stay open.” Another perk is that each of the scaled McLaren cars comes with a unique serial number that reveals special behind-the-scenes content for passionate auto lovers.
