This Diploma Project From A Strate Graduate Is Striking A Balance Between Technology And Human Agency

Sharing vehicles is good for the environment and saves money for people who use them. Instead of everyone owning their car, they can share one, which means they don't have to spend a lot of money upfront. But when people share cars, they might not feel like the car is theirs. As more people start sharing cars and giving rides to others, the brands and designs of cars might become less important, making them seem more like buses or trains.

Disclaimer: This is a Diploma project done with Strate Ecole de Design

This change could cause problems with safety and fairness as we've seen with shared electric scooters. In the future, if self-driving cars are shared, people might not feel as connected to them as they do to cars they own, which could change how cars are made in the future.

The Sustainability Challenge of Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicles, while promising convenience, raise concerns regarding sustainability. Reports indicate a substantial increase in energy consumption once conventional vehicles are equipped with autonomous technologies. Greg Keoleian, a leading expert from the University of Michigan Center for Sustainable Systems, highlights the significant energy demand, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions in autonomous transportation.

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There exists a profound connection between mobility, responsibility, and cognitive development across generations. Mastery over one's movement fosters character development, irrespective of the mode of transportation. Active engagement, whether through horse riding, cycling, or walking, nurtures decision-making skills and character formation. Maintaining cognitive abilities requires a balance of physical and mental activities, stimulating both fast and slow thinking processes. However, concerns loom regarding future generations' cognitive development, as technological advancements diminish opportunities for self-movement and decision-making. The overreliance on automation risks cognitive decline, potentially impeding analytical skills and cognitive development.

Not-Boring Concept

Not-Boring is a unique car tailored for young, inexperienced drivers who struggle with attention deficiency. The project aims to revolutionize the driving experience by stimulating the senses and heightening the perception of risk to enhance concentration levels. One of its key features is a hydrogen combustion engine, meticulously designed to engage all the senses of the driver. Traditional cars often rely solely on visual and auditory cues, but Not-Boring goes beyond that. It incorporates elements that appeal to multiple senses simultaneously. For instance, the engine's operation generates not only heat but also distinctive sounds and vibrations, creating a multi-dimensional experience for the driver.

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By engaging various senses, Not-Boring aims to captivate the driver's attention and foster a deeper connection with the driving experience. The incorporation of sensory elements not only makes driving more engaging but also helps young drivers stay focused and alert on the road. The vehicle is intentionally crafted without a roof or windows, aiming to expose the driver to a heightened level of stimuli. This design choice serves to amplify the driver's perception of risk while reducing the comfort typically associated with enclosed vehicles. Drawing an analogy to riding a bicycle at low speeds versus being comfortably ensconced in a high-speed car, the open design of this vehicle is intended to keep the driver more alert and attentive.

A distinctive feature of this vehicle is the placement of the engine directly beneath the driver, facilitating the transmission of vibrations throughout the vehicle and the user. This arrangement adds an extra layer of sensory stimulation, further engaging the driver. Integrated into the seat are hydrogen tanks, which supply the engine with fuel. Each movement of the throttle triggers slight temperature fluctuations, adding another dimension to the driving experience and capturing the driver's attention.

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To maintain focus and reduce distractions, the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission. This requires the driver to pay close attention to the engine's revolutions per minute (RPM) and their surroundings, fostering a heightened sense of awareness.

Additionally, to accommodate rainy weather conditions, a zip-on suit akin to those used in kayaking has been devised. This suit attaches to the vehicle's exterior, shielding the driver from rain, wind, and snow, ensuring their comfort and safety in adverse weather conditions.

Striking a Balance Between Technology and Human Agency

While technological advancements offer unprecedented comfort and safety, it's imperative to preserve the essence of human agency in driving. Design innovations like "Not-Boring" exemplify the fusion of technology and human-centric principles, fostering cognitive engagement and safety in the evolving transportation landscape.

In conclusion, the evolution of vehicle design must prioritize cognitive engagement and safety to mitigate the adverse effects of passivity and autonomy. By embracing innovative solutions like "Not-Boring," designers can redefine the driving experience, empowering users to navigate the roads with heightened awareness and responsibility.

About Designer

Amir Hatoum is a Lebanese designer who studied motorcycle design at the Istituto Europeo di Design. He later completed a master's degree in car design at Strate Ecole de Design.

Visit his profile