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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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!
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.”
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.
