Willys CJ like electric off-roader is made for quick adventures and cargo hauling tasks

Posted on 30/10/2022 by Gaurav Sood

If you’ve got bored of the usual SUVs, then French startup Kilow has got the perfect off-roading set of wheels if you are a couple. Meet the two-seater La Bagnole electric UTV that can also be categorized as a mini pickup truck for the appropriate tasks. The makers label it as a vehicle “stripped of the superfluous, ideal for daily journeys and designed to be fun and practical.”

La Bagnole has a typical Willys Jeep vibe from the front – just look at that grille and the open-wheel design. Thus, the vehicle is primarily used for adventures and dirt-laden tracks for the outdoorsy who love to head outside the city limits every now and then. Don’t expect it to go at breakneck speeds on the freeway (it’s more like a crawling machine) since the entry-level variant maxes out at 29 mph and the much more powerful version churns out a 50 mph top speed.

Designer: Kilow

The EV is quite lightweight having a dry weight of 770 lb and both variants have a respectable range. 43 miles and 87 miles respectively. One big advantage here is the ability to charge via a standard outlet in just a few hours. Rather than being a full-blown SUV or MUV, La Bagnole is more of an alternative to a two-wheeler with the freedom to tread inhospitable terrain. More so when it has got a steel chassis and galvanized steel double-wishbone suspension. Those skinny tires don’t look to assuring for a hardcore off-roading experience, still good enough for the odd detour down the trails. For times when you need to haul medium-sized cargo, the vehicle won’t let you down.

If you are already thinking it’s more like a toy car for adults, bingo… The EV ships in a toy car-inspired box which can be recycled as a storage crate. There is even an option to charge the battery off-grid with integrated solar panels. The vehicle debuted at the Paris Motor Show last week and grabbed attention for its unconventional looks.

The base L6e version will not require a driver’s license while the beefier version will require the honors. La Bagnole will come at a starting price tag of $9,975 and the deliveries are expected by early 2023.

The post Willys CJ like electric off-roader is made for quick adventures and cargo hauling tasks first appeared on Yanko Design.

Move over Cybertruck – Thundertruck with bat wing solar awnings is the Batmobile avatar for all off-road adventures

Posted on 24/12/2021 by Gaurav Sood

The ultra-futuristic EV seems like an evolved Batmobile RC toy car transformed magically into the real-world scaled-up version. Thundertruck takes things to the next level with its roof-mounted bat wing solar awning which adds to the battery power reserve and acts as potent shade in extreme heat when parked for camping, fishing, or BBQing.

All automotive fanatics are waiting for the Cybertruck to finally roll out of the production lines and on the roads. While that has been pushed back to sometime in 2022, the next generation multi-utility truck with the performance of a sports car is still seeming like a distant dream. This is the perfect opportunity for an electric MUV to give the vision of the ultimate performance truck-wide wings. Thundertruck is the perfect example of that, as it is designed for individuals who preferer living and driving outside the proverbial lines!

Designed by Wolfgang IP, the sharp-looking multi-purpose EV takes on the current automotive design principles to bring superior on and off-road performance to the fore. According to them, Thundertruck is crafted for the outdoor enthusiasts and young crowd who don’t like living within the boundaries and following the herd. The extra edgy truck (so sharp even the Cybertruck seems blunt) is inspired by the Australian Outback and honed by state-of-the-art technology adapting to any terrain and adventure coming its way. It goes from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds flat, boasting its high-performance electric motor capabilities. The advanced driver assistance systems ensure safety on dangerous trails as the scope of driving errors is always there.

The spacious cargo bed can be accessed via steps and extendable loading ramps enable loading of 2 or 4 wheel bikes. The integrated camping tent expands over the main tray, and it raises by PV trunk lid cover. There’s even a multi-purpose pull-out side draw storage unit with a slide-out kitchen or refrigerator. A matching drone flies off the roof of the vehicle to perform scouting or reiki to gauge the condition of roads ahead in unknown territory. What more can you ask from a swanky-looking MUV like this one?

Even better, the 180 kWh battery-equipped 4×4 (800 HP) can be converted into a 210 kWh battery-powered 6×6 (940 HP) multi-purpose EV monster honing a combined driving range of 560 miles and additional 2WD traction. Both the normal and 6×6 versions have massive ground clearance of 14.5 inches, an approach angle of 48 degrees, and a departure angle of 82 degrees. There’s no word yet when this truck in pure matte black will set the roads on fire, but if does anytime next year, Tesla will have a major headache on their hands!

Designer: Wolfgang

The post Move over Cybertruck – Thundertruck with bat wing solar awnings is the Batmobile avatar for all off-road adventures first appeared on Yanko Design.

A HEIMPLANET geodesic tent comes integrated in this 4WD electric truck to keep you adventure ready!

Posted on 11/06/2021 by Gaurav Sood

Electric pick-up trucks are going to be the next big rage as Cybertruck paves the way for others like the Rivian R1Tor Lordstown Endurance to bring the taste of this new revolution to the eager consumers. The upcoming trend has also aroused California-based Alpha Motor Corporation. Still, they are already looking ahead of time with an electric pick-up truck with an outlandish Overlanding version in the pipeline. Meet the Wolf + Cloudbreak – created in collaboration with HEIMPLANET – as the exciting future of electric mobility for outdoor adventure seekers!

HEIMPLANET is a German camping and adventure gear specialist company that has worked with Alpha Motor Corporation to build a unique version of the Cloudbreak geodesic tent. The expansive tent becomes a part of the vehicle, extending the usable footprint of the electric truck to give the adventurous riders almost double the space to set camp safely. The structure is highly weather-proof and stable, with dual access points to the vehicle – resulting in a safe and functional camping setup. To be precise, it is made out of high tenacity polyester that is resistant to tear. According to HEIMPLANET Co-Founder Stefan Clauss, “We have been searching for the perfect structure that guarantees stability and offers comfortable access. Many structures offer either one or another, but with this geodesic structure, we found the perfect balance.”

Teams in both camps are working dedicatedly to bring the unique outdoor adventure experience to the masses. Alpha Motor’s production offer is grounded in coexistence with nature, with upcycling at the core of the think tank. The MUV here is the perfect example of their belief in the German word “Heimat,” which means a place you can call home – a place that makes you feel safe no matter what. “We are passionate to find sustainable solutions that people can truly appreciate,” said the team as they tease the Wolf + Cloudbreak concept in a special edition Carmel White color inspired by the sandstones of Carmel Beach, California.

Wolf + Cloudbreak is still in the development phase, and it remains to be seen how it fares when the final model is ready. For now, the makers promise a driving range of around 260 miles on a single charge on the dual-motor 4WD. Since it has an electric drivetrain, there is more space under the hood to store adventure gear or other essentials. It can be a haven for four passengers with the expansive tent stuffed in the bed or maybe hauled behind like a trailer. It is safe to assume that the vehicle will have optional solar panel attachments and an extendable tray-like space to store the geodesic tent from the images. The idea seems utterly fascinating, and one which I’m keen on exploring ASAP!

Designer: Alpha Motor Corporation

This hydrogen-powered pickup truck embodies the perfect balance of aesthetics + performance + utility

Posted on 27/04/2021 by Gaurav Sood

Climate change and global warming are decimating the planet, and the burning of fossil fuels for the automotive industry is the major contributor. According to the EPA, since 1970, CO2 emissions have increased by about 90%, with emissions from fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes contributing about 78% of the total greenhouse gas emissions increase from 1970 to 2011. The metamorphosis to clean energy-powered vehicles is underway as electric, and hybrid vehicles vow to control the damage done. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are the latest alternative automotive manufacturers are exploring with Toyota Mirao, Hyundai Nexo, and Honda Clarity are good examples of commercially available zero-emission hydrogen cars. While hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are still not mainstream, that scenario will change in the next decade.

Envisioning a future where hydrogen-powered clean vehicles will make up a significant chunk of the portfolio of clean energy-powered automobiles, designer Jacob Amrhein presents his concept of a pickup truck for 2030. The idea here is to create a powerful 4×4 all-terrain vehicle built for the upcoming truck lovers. The pickup truck will be called Solidarity – developed by GM, Stellantis, and Ford – who are already investing quite a lot in low environmental impact vehicles for the planet, focusing on saving the earth before damaging the environment beyond a point of repair. Choosing hydrogen as the reliable fuel of the future for the automotive industry is recommended since it has a better range than electric vehicles or renewable energy use. According to estimates by industry body Hydrogen Council, hydrogen technologies will supply 18 percent of the world’s total energy needs in the future and will be able to power around 425 million vehicles around the world by 2050. The European Commission’s Energy Roadmap for 2050 has proposed that renewables will produce 85 percent of energy; 65 percent of it will come from solar and wind.

The pickup’s bold design attracts attention with easily accessible dual hydrogen tanks perfectly integrated on the side and on top to suffice the needs on a long trip. Solidarity truck’s utility lies in its modular bed, which can be swapped out for accessories depending on the user’s needs. Also, the slide tie-down points along the bed structure ensure safely hauling the cargo. The tailgate slides under the bed for easy loading or unloading of cargo by facilitating easier reach-in access. It already sounds like a compelling proposition, isn’t it so?

Designer: Jacob Amrhein

This inclusively designed electric mobility vehicle is Tony Stark’s hoverboard

Posted on 19/05/2020 by Ruchi Thukral

You know the bright future is here when we see design concepts like MÜV (pronounced “move”) – a purely electric, self-balancing, hands-free assistive mobility vehicle concept that grants you true omnidirectional maneuverability. To simplify it, think of it as a hoverboard with a seat but you don’t have to worry about balancing it! MÜV may have started as inclusive design but it quickly adapted itself to fall under the universal umbrella even though it will still benefit the disabled demographic more as was it’s original intention.

It has been designed with the latest robotics self-balancing technologies to give the rider intuitive navigational control so they can ride with ease. MÜV is fitted with a spherical drive system that gives it its distinctive omnidirectional maneuverable abilities that lets the rider lean, twist or tilt in any direction while the vehicle gently follows. It is similar to what my ski instructor taught me – just move your body in the direction you want to go and the skis will follow.

“To evolve the way people move by spreading joy and ease of movement” is what the designer set as his motto when working on the vehicle. The primary goals were improved safety, comfort, aesthetics & maneuverability. Additional details such as range, affordability, and overall user-friendliness were also important factors that had to be considered. It is charged wirelessly, unlike traditional competitor products, which makes it portable and convenient. This is what an inclusively designed mobility vehicle would look like if Tony Stark ever made one. And for you DC fans, this is the batmobile of electric mobility vehicles. Let’s take a ride down the design process for MÜV.

Designer: Neutron Her

Safety was the number one priority followed by comfort. It has footrests for when the user is cruising with adequate clearance around the user’s legs for emergency stops. It is fitted with multiple sensors and advanced control algorithms that collect the physical rotation/translatory intention data to make sure MÜV adapts to your moves for an effortless experience.

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Understanding where this vehicle fits in the market, alongside the typical engineering systems inside these vehicles gives us a strong starting point to develop accurate, honest industrial design solutions; forms that can be realistically achieved while satisfying the goals.

The high-tech mobility vehicle comes with a modern chair that blends in with the rest of its body. Ergonomics were a big part of MÜV given that it is an assistive mobility vehicle. The CMF was picked to give the user a sense of its sturdy, robust, and reliable form.

It’s built using two major housing casings; both made of polyamide (nylon) reinforced with fiber-glass and each injection-molded in one single operation. The metallic painting on the convex form reflects its surroundings, adding a sense of slenderness. The parting line where black and titanium meet simply flows along the neck, making the body look slimmer.

A two-tone color scheme creates a minimalist, yet striking design. The front panel is full depth colored semi-matte obsidian black to convey a sense of utilitarian ruggedness yet remaining sporty and modern. Complemented by a sleek titanium painted finish back panel.

MÜV gives the freedom of movement to the elderly and disabled demographic who can’t drive, won’t have to depend on someone to push the wheelchair, and wouldn’t require the strain of walking using walkers/canes. This allows for more fluid and safe movement giving them a chance to live independently.

To reduce bulkiness, the interior dead space is minimized by organizing printed circuit boards, fans, filters, and motors tightly together without compromising any functionality.

It uses a wireless charging method by tilting its wireless charging pad located below the battery onto a wireless charging station. This surface also doubles as a stable resting pad during stops/short breaks. At this angle, the electronics enter a sleep mode to conserve power. When tilted back for use, the system powers up and begins automatically stabilizing at full power preparing for the rider to safely mount.

The MÜV’s battery level is indicated by 7 white LED along the front neck of the vehicle.

The lithium-ion battery pack is placed at the front for optimized cooling, proximity to the charging pad, lowered center of gravity, and convenience. It can be easily swapped for a full battery or kept attached and recharged on-board by tilting the wireless charging pad on an MÜV charging dock.

The center of gravity remains low, providing great stability while improving control. Ground clearance is sufficient for tight turns and obstacle avoidance during daily joy rides.

Rethinking the Mobile Retail Experience

Posted on 11/01/2017 by Troy Turner

MUV / Rethinking the Mobile Retail Experience from Radlab on Vimeo.

Old-school vending pushcarts are literally getting PUSHED out of retail areas by new businesses! Designed for their native Boston, Radial’s answer to this is the MŪV (Modular Urban Vending) cart – a mobile retail pushcart designed for the contemporary street vending experience. It was conceived as an alternative to the various wagon-wheel carts scattered around the city of Boston in order to address both the functional concerns of vendors and the revitalization efforts of the downtown community.

Downtown Boston’s history of street vending began as early as the eighteenth century when pushcarts were used to sell meat and produce. Although the use of the outdated wooden wagon-wheel model is still common, the merchandise sold and the needs of Boston vendors have evolved dramatically. Revitalization efforts by the downtown community have attracted new businesses to the area at the expense of the development of these pushcarts. As a result, Radlab was commissioned to provide a design solution that addressed these concerns.

MŪV revisits the idea of pushcarts as mobile containers for merchandise. Vendors customarily overload pushcarts with merchandise, resulting in carts that are visually unappealing with merchandise that is difficult to see. The geometric solution contains the merchandise, creating an enclosure within which vendors can display and sell their products.

Functionally, the design allows vendors to customize their pushcarts. Each vendor has a preffered method of displaying their goods that adjusts to seasonal conditions. Rather than providing a fixed display, MŪV employs a module track-and-bolt system incorporated to the interior of the cart that gives vendors the flexibility of fitting out their pushcarts to their needs.

MŪV reflects a modern-day retail experience by giving urban vending a uniform brand identity. Despite operating as individual vendors, the unified visual identity creates both a uniform and visually appetizing street vending presence in Downtown Boston.

Designer: Radlab

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