Juha-Pekka Rautio, Polar
ARTS THREAD takes a look at some of the highlights from the RCA 2011 Vehicle Design MA show.
Juha-Pekka Rautio created an incredible next-generation vehicle for Polar areas of the Northern hemisphere. Ideal for rugged terrains and harsh driving conditions, the utility vehicle ‘Polar’ has been designed to easily traverse undeveloped environments.
“People living in areas that are too isolated to be connected to the national electricity grid have to give up some obvious conveniences that city folks have,” says Juha-Pekka. “This makes living in rural areas more challenging and less attractive. The objective of this concept is to offer mobility and energy for the remote community.
Robert Hagenstrom, Bamboo Utility Vehicle/James Harness, Hecta
Robert Hagenstrom showcased his innovative ‘Bamboo Utility Vehicle’. The sustainable design has been produced for farm workers in developing countries.
Robert explains: “The vehicle is powered by biodiesel sourced from switchgrass and constructed from bamboo; two perennial crops grown at a new type of permaculture farm. It channels traditional craftsmanship knowledge of the elders and also provides a mobile shelter from the sun.”
James Harness’ love of cycling has been one of the main sources of inspiration behind his hybrid ‘Hecta’ vehicle. His design has been selected for an exhibition at the London Transport Museum, opening October 2011.
Richard Bone & James Brooks, Box/Shang Dai, Innovahicle
Richard Bone & James Brooks collaborated together under the name ‘Brooks & Bone’ to create their urban ‘Box’ vehicle.
Brooks & Bone explain: “The motivation behind the ‘Box’ project is that of seeking ways to create solutions to urban travel. Share car systems are beginning to utilise the car in a less wasteful, less self-indulgent and more egalitarian way. In our extensive research we found there are no personal vehicles in existence specifically designed for inner city shared use.”
Shang Dai also reconsidered the traditional square chassis shape, producing a more streamlined automobile – perfect for crowded urban environments such as Shang Dai’s native China.
Adam Phillips, Family Dynamic
Adam Phillips’ ‘Family Dynamic’ design is aimed at the modern family and features an interior which responds to their needs.
“Current interiors promote an outdated family dynamic, with one occupant being handed all of the focus and responsibility,” explains Adam. “By mimicking the dynamic of the modern home, I believe I can create a space where healthy interaction and shared responsibility can take place. A successful family vehicle needs to be more than just a clever seating arrangement. It should grow and adapt with its occupants from one stage of their lives to the next.”
RCA Vehicle Design
Juha-Pekka Rautio
Robert Hagenstrom
James Harness
Richard Bone & James Brooks
Shang Dai: daishangt53@gmail.com
Adam Phillips: adam.phillips@network.rca.ac.uk
Post a Reply