Design Solutions for Transportation
Jul 9th, 2008 by rlsorbe
With high gas prices on the rise, stay-cations and alternative modes of transportation are top priority for travel plans this year. In order to find solutions to our transportation crisis, industrial designers and engineers are pushing limits to create solutions based on energy efficient technology that encompasses aesthetic appeal. From Verdier to the Smart Car, and conceptual ideas to practical - here are a few Green Cars that exhibit environmental quality and extraordinary design:
Westfalia VERDIER
The original Westfalia was the symbol of the hippy culture, while the newest model is a symbol of today’s green technology. This Verdier Solar Power won the Special Prize from the jury at the Caravaning Design Award Innovation for new mobility (2006/2007). For more info on this ride, check out their press release.
Tesla Motors - Roadster
“Tesla best represents the direction the auto industry must go. Too many automakers have churned out the same old cars year after year, growing fat and lazy on the profit margins offered by SUVs and pickup trucks. That won’t work anymore, and they know it. It’s time for new thinking and new ideas. It’s time for innovation. The Tesla has those things in spades, and there’s a reason Silicon Valley is emerging as a leader in electric vehicle technology,” states Chuck Squatriglia from a Wired posting.
Lumeno Smera
With a team of engineers and technicians that specialize in cars and electronics, here is the Smera: a 4 wheel, 2 seat electric vehicle that is narrow enough to maneauver like a motorcycle. Take a look at their technical specification and controlled tilting technology.
E-Ride and Miles Electric Trucks
An alternative to riding an SUV truck, Smart Wheels in Denver brings the Colorado region the E-Ride and Miles ZX40S Utility Truck. These two-passenger utility vehicle and four- passenger transportation vehicle are 100% electric, easy to maintain, and a practical green solution for many facility maintenance needs.
Yamaha BOBBY
This all-black electric scooter prototype was designed to resemble a fold up bicycle, and functions for the commuter with convenient stow away compartments, a collapsible seat, a fold-in rear wheel, and more. For more example of alternative motorcycles, read this article: The Future of Alternative Motorcycles
Below are a few more alternative transportation links:
GreenCar.Com
The Green Car Company
Green Vehicle Guide (EPA)