Current society tries to bring more diversity into the streets. Many individuals are looking for new ways to express themselves. The overall trend these days is to seek for products produced in a strictly sustainable and careful way. How can we support these values in the process of creation and production of innovative products?
Introduction
The car industry has gone through a difficult journey in recent years. The future of transportation is seen mostly in public transport. Nevertheless, can we imagine a vehicle based on the current values of mostly young people - diversity, individuality, sustainability - which could create more diverse possibilities of transfer, and expression of one's identity, created in the most careful, and eco-friendly way? One seater Nike Scallop tries to reflect these needs.
The Design
The main inspiration for the silhouette was the very smooth, light, and dynamic-looking shapes of the shells and scallops in combination with bold metallic parts of the frame. Lightweight materials and metal frame designed on top of the electric platform was the core idea behind the project, which further directed it’s aesthetic philosophy.
The vehicle is embedded in the scenario of the sunny streets of California which allowed Jonáš to use a fabric body in his approach. The advantage of the fabric body, especially lightness and flexibility, enabled Jonáš to use an origami system for the opening. The vehicle is designed as a one-seater as it is the better option for the personalization and expression of the owner, creator.
The battery is placed under the metal frame, electric motors are in the center of the wheels, and the central hub system is used for the steering. The design of the forks is very organic as it underlines the overall feeling of the vehicle. The suspension system is similar as in a motorbike. Jonáš designed a very large and clean metal shape around the suspension with the holograph system inside which creates very pure volume in the interior.
The Branding
The vehicle is branded as Nike because of the sustainable materials they developed in recent years, such as recycled nylon which is used as a fabric wrapped around the frame, and Nike Grind, a recycled rubber used for tires and floor.
The brand Nike was also chosen because of its approach to custom products. Jonáš researched the possibilities of using cars and motorcycles in the NIKE BY YOU system. He wanted users to design or choose their own patterns for the fabric, select a color combination for tires, etc. The product supports users' personal expression and creativity.
The Technology
Because the vehicle is autonomous and single-seater, Jonáš wanted to place a big sofa-like seat inside the interior inspired also by scallops. The key idea was the vehicle communication with the passenger through the hologram and also the seat itself. Shape memory wires are designed inside the seat so we can change its shape to different seating positions.
A holograph system, placed in the metal cover of the suspension, communicates with the passengers through 3d objects projected in space. Passengers can use it for interaction with the vehicle. A small space behind the seat is a place for storing luggage. Jonáš believes there is a need for different approaches in transportation design, especially with the growing potential of the platforms for electric vehicles.
About Designer
Jonáš Jagerčík is a designer from the Czech Republic. He studied product design (specialising in transportation design) in Pilsen, Czech Republic. He loves innovative design with the main effort to create a sustainable and progressive future. His biggest passion is to design vehicles, bring new ideas, and point out new possibilities. Currently, He is looking for new opportunities.
