Tag Archives: Automotive

Explore the unexplored in the adventure-driven, all-terrain ALD09 camping trailer

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Arguably, the traditional image of camping and outdoor exploration is in a relay of evolution, and Georgia-based ROC Trailers is sharing the baton. To that accord, the outdoorsy company has launched its new ALD09 trailer. This innovative camping trailer isn’t just another addition to the market; it represents a leap in eco-friendly, electric vehicle-compatible camping.

Bucking the trend of conventional trailers, the ALD09 replaces old aluminum-skinned wooden structures with an insulated fiberglass-composite design exuding a luxury yacht appearance. The choice of material, ROC shares, not only amplifies strength and durability but significantly reduces the trailer’s weight, facilitating a lighter footprint on outdoor expeditions.

Designer: ROC Trailers

Engineered particularly for rugged off-road escapades, the ALD09 boasts a robust steel frame construction, all-terrain tires with 16-inch steel wheels, and a 2000lb axle-less independent suspension granting an impressive 20-inch ground clearance. Such fortitude promises a journey through diverse terrains without compromising on stability or comfort.

Emphasized by its lighter construction, and a gross weight as low as 2,000 pounds (907 kg), the trailer is extremely flexible in how and with what sort of vehicle you choose to tow it. That said, the interior reflects a classic teardrop-style layout featuring a queen-size mattress, LED lighting, and USB ports. For added space, a shelf next to the foot of the bed transforms into a sleeping platform and is ideal for tucking in a child or a furry friend. This assortment expands the sleeper capacity, without the rooftop tent, which is an optional setting to increase the headroom and provide more ventilation.

The galley is where the trailer’s heart rests. Here, an efficient kitchen setup includes drawers, cabinets, and an optional sink. To address the challenge of limited space, ROC spreads equipment around, providing a tongue box with a fridge, and a side table ideal for holding a portable stove – all integrated into a flat, tailgate you can flip-open for a satisfying culinary experience on the road.

To make the ALD09 ready for elongated stays in the wilderness, its kitchen is equipped with a 57-liter water tank. The trailer can be retrofitted with a 100-watt solar panel and a 10A Voyager solar controller if required. Starting at a modest $16,999 without the add-ons; if you factor in its lightweight construction and spacious interior, the ROC ALD09 is a modern trailer with environmental responsibility at the back of its mind.

The post Explore the unexplored in the adventure-driven, all-terrain ALD09 camping trailer first appeared on Yanko Design.

Porsche Mission S ‘Boattail’ Concept showcases a Thrilling New Aerodynamic Form

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They say the teardrop shape is considered one of the most aerodynamic profiles ever, given how it effortlessly bends the air around it to glide through with minimal drag. The tail of a teardrop plays a crucial role in this process, explaining the importance of tails in birds, planes, and boats. The Porsche Mission S by Zhe Huang brings that feature to automotive design. Created as a hyper-racing MPV, the Mission S recreates the professional racing experience for regular folk with its 911-esque proportions, supercar-esque cockpit, and unique teardrop rear that takes the term ‘boattail’ to new lengths.

Designer: Zhe Huang

The Mission S was designed as a part of Huang’s internship at studiokurbos, Shanghai. Although unaffiliated with the Porsche brand, the Mission S builds on the German marque’s automotive legacy, channeling the same energy that Porsche had when it debuted the Mission X or even the 919. This isn’t your friendly-looking Cayman or 911. It eschews the rounded-headlight curvy design language for something that’s more purpose-built for a racetrack.

The car sports a rather smooth design with flowy surfaces that come together cleanly, instead of being overrun with vents, grooves, and other dramatic details you’d see in overtly aggressive racecars from the likes of Lamborghini. The Mission S doesn’t completely surrender its curves, but rather limits the use of them to the front fenders, keeping its silhouette rather simple. A highlight of its design is its unconventional tail, which tapers off when viewed vertically, resulting in a centrally-located edge-lit taillight. “The design inspiration comes from the waterdrop in ‘Three Body’, which gives the car an extremely dynamic and pure body shape like the Porsche 908 and Porsche Vision Gran Turismo,” Huang says.

The Mission S measures 5.6m (18.3 feet) long and 2.1m (6.8 feet) wide, allowing five passengers including a professional racer to sit inside its cockpit. It stands at 1.26m (4.1 feet) tall, matching the height of the 911, while having the occupants inside sit in a more supercar-esque posture.

Embracing its futuristic demeanor, light-strips make quite an appearance in the Mission S’ design, with their presence on the front in the form of the headlights, as well as the back where the centrally located taillight is also accompanied by lights on each side.

The Mission S experience can be divided between its two variants, rather appropriately named the White and the Black versions. For the faint of heart, the White version prioritizes comfort and friendliness… but if you’re looking to put the pedal to the metal and taste the adrenaline, the Black variant offers faster speeds, a more thrilling experience, and sports a spoiler at the back to maximize downforce for that asphalt-hugging speed experience.

Quite like the Mission X which was revealed in June of this year, it seems like the Mission S concept embraces an electric drivetrain too. It doesn’t discard the venting on the front, which would be a telltale sign of an EV, but rather retains it perhaps for cooling and airflow purposes. One rather elongated door on either side gives access to the Mission S’ interiors, which seat up to 5 people in a 1+2+2 format. The car’s windshield extends all the way from the front to the back, creating a bubble-like effect that is interrupted by the car’s same-color pillars and roof but still strives to offer a panoramic view for its occupants with windows that stretch from the front to the back, and that expansive windshield.

The Mission S aims to deliver the thrill of racing to non-racers with its S trifecta – Speed, Spaciousness, and a Subversive Experience. Although currently just a fan-made concept (with no official endorsement from Porsche), it serves as a great case study for a new car format – with a 5-seater design that doesn’t sacrifice spaciousness… and that gorgeous tail that allows the car to cut through air like a sizzling hot knife through butter!

The post Porsche Mission S ‘Boattail’ Concept showcases a Thrilling New Aerodynamic Form first appeared on Yanko Design.

Experience freedom with PlugVan that transforms small and mid-sized van into adventure haven in 5 minutes

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In the adventure community, the allure of the rugged roads steamrolls the idea of having a flexible, easily transformable campervan. And when you cannot find one that is as capable, you need something like the PlugVan: an innovative solution for small van owners looking to unlock the potential of their vehicles for adventure and exploration.

PlugVan gives you the freedom of converting your Mercedes Vito, VW T4, T5, or T6.1 into a fully equipped camper and back to its original state in just five minutes. The PlugVan Small module is the key to turning your ordinary vehicle into a versatile adventure-ready companion. Whether it’s a spur-of-the-moment weekend getaway or a planned road trip, this modular system offers a hassle-free transformation, allowing you to seamlessly switch between everyday utility and a fully equipped camper setup.

Designer: PlugVan

One of the most compelling features of the PlugVan is its adaptability. No modifications to the base vehicle are needed, making it a convenient choice for van owners seeking versatility without sacrificing the integrity of their vehicles. With its compact design, the PlugVan Small measures 200cm long and is adjustable from 122cm to 164cm in width.

The PlugVan Small is crafted to suit various vehicles as its extendable side sections ensure an optimal fit to the width of your van, providing a snug and secure setup. Within this cleverly designed module, you’ll find a swiveling table for indoor and outdoor use, a convenient kitchenette complete with an integrated sink, and a water system for both fresh and wastewater.

Interestingly, the PlugVan also provides a connection for an outdoor shower. Ample storage space is ensured so that all your essentials for the road can be neatly stowed away. 12V light strips illuminate the space within, creating a cozy ambiance for your adventures. The multifunctional design also incorporates a sofa that ingeniously transforms into a comfortable bed, making overnight stays a delight. For those seeking additional amenities, there’s an option for electricity storage and a solar panel.

One of the most appealing aspects of the PlugVan Small is its accessibility. Starting from a reasonable price of 5,880 EUR, this innovative camper module opens up a world of possibilities without breaking the bank. It’s a game-changer for van owners looking to elevate their travel experiences without investing in an entirely new vehicle.

The post Experience freedom with PlugVan that transforms small and mid-sized van into adventure haven in 5 minutes first appeared on Yanko Design.

This electric bicycle turns into a kick scooter but lacks the comfort one would desire

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Personal mobility vehicles come in various genres and form factors depending on the specific needs of the user. There is a wide array of options from the upbeat Segway and kick scooters to the more conventional bicycles and unicycles. The creative Asian market in Japan and China is also witness to the more futuristic personal pods that are a cross between a Segway and a scooter.

This electric bicycle further takes the hybrid nature of personal commuters to the next level with Cake bike-inspired aesthetics. The modular nature of this commuter makes it a good option for every kind of user. It can be your scooter, a Cake bike, or an electric ride.

Designer: YU ID

The ride also draws inspiration from everyday gadgets, adapting their sleek form without compromising on the robust aesthetic that’s vital to support the body weight. Talking of supporting the rider’s weight, the saddle takes an awkward-looking shape that’ll not keep the rider comfortable for long. This form factor flows with the slim character of the bicycle but is somewhat of a comfort killer I have to say.

The rear middle section of the Electric Mobility bicycle can be detached for the kick-scooter functionality. A pretty big kick scooter it has to be said, perfect for above-than-average people. Would anyone fancy riding this? Well, this commuter has many bases untouched that should have been taken into consideration while designing the blueprint.

The post This electric bicycle turns into a kick scooter but lacks the comfort one would desire first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Japanese trailer or possible home extension is blank canvas you can shape to your desires

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In a captivating unison of innovation and style, reckoned Japanese RV maker, Kworks, has joined forces with Japanese home goods manufacturer Lixil, to birth the Mio Space trailer. This architecturally fascinating trailer rethinks the concept of furnished camping trailers and presents owners with a blank canvas they can furnish to their willingness.

To that accord, Mio Space trailer is a statement of adaptability. Kworks offers it for two possibilities, either it can be used for camping or seamlessly placed to extend the boundaries of your home. As an adaptable trailer, it can thus cater to every day of the year (in your backyard or in the wilderness), with a fascinating design that blurs the line between nature and modern architecture.

Designer: Kworks and Lixil

To start out, the Mio Space trailer captivates with its expansive windows that beckon natural light, complemented by the warm embrace of wooden paneling on the inside and out. The strategic placement of wooden slats from top to bottom not only adds a touch of allure to the interior, it also offers functional spaces to hang furniture, imbuing the trailer with a distinct flexibility.

Arriving in a noticeable rectangular structure, the Mio Space trailer has subtle rounded edges to distinguish its looks. Step inside, and the vast emptiness of the space strikes at first glance. However, Kworks asserts that this deliberate openness embodies a ‘flexible design’ ethos. It allows owners the freedom to shape the space as they desire: whether as a camper’s nest or an additional room that complements one’s home.

While the onus of furnishing the Mio Space trailer falls on its future owners, the clever positioning of slats creates opportunities for storage and a possible kitchen area to make the trailer into a desirable mobile home. If you may, you can pre-order the Mio Space starting summer of 2024. Even though Kworks has kept the features and pricing under wraps for now, we learn Mio Space sales will be confined to Japan, at least initially.

The post This Japanese trailer or possible home extension is blank canvas you can shape to your desires first appeared on Yanko Design.

Lexus unveils the futuristic and functional LX 600 overlander for adventure junkies at SEMA 2023

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Lexus has once again captured the spotlight at the 2023 SEMA Show with the customized Lexus LX 600. This luxurious, full-size SUV is designed to redefine the boundaries of automotive innovation, showcasing cutting-edge features that make it a standout in the competitive world of SUVs.

One of the most attention-grabbing aspects of the Lexus LX 600 is its stunning color-shifting exterior, a design element that sets it apart from the crowd. This unique feature allows the Overlander SUV to change colors depending on the angle and lighting conditions, giving the vehicle an air of mystique and elegance. It’s a testament to Lexus’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and aesthetics.

Designer: Lexus

The LX 600’s interior is where the innovation truly shines. It’s not just an off-roading beast, it’s a mobile luxury kitchen on wheels. Lexus has seamlessly integrated a fully functional kitchen into the rear of the vehicle, making it the perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The kitchen boasts top-notch appliances, a spacious countertop, and ample storage space, ensuring that every journey is a culinary adventure waiting to unfurl.

This kitchen setup is an unprecedented addition catering to those who love to embark on road trips and enjoy fine dining while on the go. It transforms the LX 600 into a home away from home, allowing you to prepare gourmet meals without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. Under the hood, the Lexus LX 600 doesn’t disappoint either. It’s equipped with a powerful and efficient engine that delivers robust performance and a smooth, comfortable ride. Whether you’re driving on the highway or tackling off-road adventures, the LX 600 offers the versatility to handle any terrain with ease.

In addition to its luxurious features, the LX 600 also offers advanced safety and technology-laden features. It comes with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems that prioritize your safety and the safety of your passengers, making each journey as secure as it is enjoyable. Lexus has truly outdone itself with the LX 600, combining the brand’s renowned commitment to quality with innovative features that set it apart from the competition. The color-shifting exterior and the rear kitchen are not only conversation starters but also practical additions that make the LX 600 an exceptional choice for those seeking luxury and convenience.

The post Lexus unveils the futuristic and functional LX 600 overlander for adventure junkies at SEMA 2023 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Man builds 13-foot mammoth bumper car which by surprise is street legal

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Retirement is often associated with relaxation and leisure. But for Dan Hryhorcoff from Pennsylvania, retirement meant diving into an entirely different realm of creativity: one that involved building extraordinary vehicles that defy traditional expectations.

After years of working on a submarine and various other innovative projects, Dan embarked on an intriguing automotive endeavor during the pandemic and came up with a Bumper car, twice the normal size, but rendered street-legal. Dan’s automotive journey first began with a replica of a vintage Murray General pedal car that he sought to magnify into a larger-than-life fiberglass creation (Dan honed the knack for working with fiberglass through his prior project—a fully functional submarine).

Desginer: Dan Hryhorcoff

However, Dan’s real automotive masterpiece emerges in the form of this gigantic street-legal bumper car. This striking creation measures an astounding 13 feet in length, 7 feet in width, and 5.5 feet in height, doubling the dimensions of a regular bumper car. The inspiration for this colossal bumper car came from a 1953 model bumper car at the Knoebels amusement park in Elysburg, Pennsylvania.

Dan was captivated by its design, reminiscent of a Chevrolet pickup truck from the post-World War II era. Spending meticulous hours at the amusement park, he gathered information and captured every detail necessary to replicate and magnify the charm of the vintage bumper car. Dan’s attention to detail and creativity shone through as he fused elements of a Chevrolet Aveo and a motorcycle wheel into his design, reshaping the traditional bumper car into a unique, functioning vehicle.

With the front of a Aveo integrated into the rear and a motorcycle wheel at the front, his bumper car boasts incredible maneuverability with sharp turning capabilities. The choice of materials was always critical in the construction of this larger-than-life automobile. The exterior, crafted from fiberglass, not only ensures durability but also adds a touch of nostalgia by paying homage to the original bumper car’s design. What truly sets Dan’s creation apart is its ability to be street-legal, a rarity for such unconventional vehicles.

The post Man builds 13-foot mammoth bumper car which by surprise is street legal first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Automotives Designed To Give Car Enthusiasts The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush

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We’ve been seeing a torrential and exciting downpour of automotive designs at Yanko Design for the past few months. Each automotive was innovative, bringing to us something we had never seen nor experienced before. From killer speed to dashing good looks, to impenetrable safety standards, every automotive we featured at YD broke some design barrier for us, and hopefully, they did the same for you as well. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of automotive designs that we feel were the best of the lot. From a bicycle with square wheels to a Porsche e-motorbike concept – each of these drool-worthy automobiles is mercilessly pushing the boundaries of the automotive industry. Automotive enthusiasts will be itching to get their hands on them, and take them for a spin on the streets!

1. Ford Mini Bronco

The Ford Mini Bronco is designed by Mexico-based Kobayashi, and it provides a sneak peek into the year 2030 – the year this car is designed for. It features modern elements with a compact, two-door configuration, which reminds one of the Suzuki Jimny. The automotive attempts to redefine the off-road segment, by providing it with a unique perspective.

2. Gordieiev’s Bicycle with Square Wheels

Meet the bicycle with square wheels! Designed by Sergii Gordieiev, this innovative bicycle is like a war tank moving on its metal tracks without any wheels! The wheels on the bicycle don’t actually roll, but instead, the rubber on the conveyor belt-like platform rotates as soon as you hit your foot on the pedal. It is completely usable in a city, and you can take turns on it.

3. Mitsubishi DX Concept

Meet the Mitsubishi DX Concept. This is a compact yet versatile lifestyle van that perfectly portrays the company’s commitment to elevating the arena of adventure travel. It is called the “tiny adventure van”, and features a futuristic design. It was showcased at a Japan Mobility Show that focused on awakening the “adventurous spirit within”.

4. Lexus LF-ZC

Dubbed the Lexus LF-ZC, which stands for “Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst”, this four-door luxury car is a prototype for Lexus’ future cars. The automotive is equipped with a highly anticipated solid state ‘prismatic’ battery technology that will be showcased in Lexus’ cars by 2026. The battery will cover 1000 kilometers on a full charge.

5. Adventure Electric Unicycle

The Adventure electric unicycle was truly designed to push the boundaries of exploration! It features a beefy 4000 W motor capable of producing 200 Nm (147.5 lb. ft) of torque and 850 N traction force. This converts it into a powerful commuter that is ready to conquer steep inclines and uneven terrain with the utmost ease and efficiency! It accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and goes at a top speed of 110 km/h.

6. Diode

Designed by Tien Hung, the Diode is an e-bike concept that features a neo-minimalist design that celebrates the future of electric power train. The form and design of the bike are almost invisible, except for one singular horizontal pillar that spans from the dashboard to the taillight. There is a large battery module located under the pillar.

7. MOQBA

The MOQBA is not simply a two-wheeled wonder, it rides on four independent legs with wheel extensions, so it can be called an electric mecha, or more accurately a mini mecha. MOQBA gets a conventional saddle which can morph into supporting seating when climbing up the stairs or moving ahead in the walking configuration – in its bike configuration.

8. Acro

Designed by Klissarov Design, the Acro is an ultralight aircraft that completely eliminates the need for a pilot’s license. The aircraft utilizes AI to provide assistance during operation, offering a harmonious, smooth, and safe flying experience. The use of AI is quite unique and useful, as it allows a large range of aviation enthusiasts to experience the thrill of piloting their own aircraft.

9. Porsche 619 Electric Concept

Designed by Jackson Zhang, the Porsche 619 electric concept is an exciting response to Porsche’s plans to go electric by 2030. The 619 is the first proper electric motorcycle we’ve seen, and it features a unique design, putting Porsche’s automotive DNA in the backseat, while also creating something that is minimalist, geometry-driven, and iconic!

10. Restorer NEV

The Restorer NEV is a chick four-wheeler with spacious interiors that can accommodate a family of four! It was revealed during the motorsports gathering at the Quail. The zero-emission urban ride is powered by a twin-electric motor drivetrain that is supported by pouch-cell lithium-ion batteries. This allows the NEV to reach a top speed of 25 mph!

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Mitsubishi DX Concept is a glimpse into the future of adventure vans

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As a seasoned automotive enthusiast, I’ve witnessed the ever-evolving landscape of the industry, and I’m excited about the latest innovation that promises to reshape the world of adventure vehicles. This is the Mitsubishi DX Concept, a compact yet versatile lifestyle van showcasing the Tokoyo-based automotive giant’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of adventure travel.

The DX Concept, affectionately dubbed the “tiny adventure van,” packs a punch in a small package. With its futuristic design and a variety of innovative features, it’s clear that Mitsubishi envisions a bright future for those who crave wanderlust. The concept EV is the centerpiece of a Japan Mobility Show exhibit centered on awakening the “adventurous spirit within.”

Designer: Mitsubishi

One of the standout features of the six-seater plug-in hybrid is its compact size, making it perfect for navigating tight city streets and venturing off the beaten path. Mitsubishi has cleverly designed this van to be both urban-friendly and adventure-ready, creating a seamless transition from city to wilderness. Under the hood, the DX Concept boasts a hybrid powertrain, embracing the sustainability trends of our time. This not only reduces its carbon footprint but also offers a range of power options suitable for various terrains and driving preferences. The combination of electric and internal combustion power ensures a smooth and efficient ride, whether you’re cruising through city traffic or exploring rugged trails.

The interior of the adventure ride is a testament to the company’s desire to please the adventure-seeking crowd. The spacious cabin offers flexible seating arrangements, transforming the van from a daily driver to a comfortable sleeping space for two. Clever storage solutions and modular features cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, allowing them to bring along all the gear they require for their journey. Furthermore, the DX Concept incorporates the latest technological advancements, including a cutting-edge infotainment system and advanced driver assistance features. Safety and connectivity are paramount in this design, ensuring that you can explore with peace of mind while staying connected to the world.

Mitsubishi DX Concept is more than just a tiny adventure van; it’s a vision of the future of adventure travel given its off-roading characteristics. If you’re an adventure seeker with an eye for innovation, keep an eye on this Mitsubishi concept – it’s a promising glimpse into the future of on-road and off-road exploration.

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