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The recently finalized Double Challenge project required MA students at
London’s Royal College of Art to design an ultra-compact electric vehicle for
event sponsor Citroën. Not surprisingly from such distilled intelligence, the
winning entry is a new type of personal urban commuter positioned between
bicycles and cars – light, aerodynamically efficient, cheap to build and economical
in its use of energy and hence run. Heikki Juvonen’s “E-3POD Antistatic” is an
ultralight, micro segment electric three-wheeler with the driver sitting inside
a large hub-less third wheel.
02.jpg (4.2 KB. 100x100 - viewed 1 times.)Juvonen’s E-3POD was conceived as an entry-level electric commuter for
young people and students and so that owners of conventional automobiles
could have a second low-cost vehicle which fits below the petrol-engined
machinery expected to remain the primary means of long distance travel for
some time yet. The E-3POD is of simple construction with a low frontal area,
excellent aerodynamics and minimal weight in order to minimize the energy
requirements of the vehicle and hence the required battery size. Minimal
usage of materials also lowers construction costs
03.jpg (35.84 KB. 529x323 - viewed 1 times.)The lowered weight is emphasized in design elements such as the rear
wheel, which works as a supportive structural element, the shared suspension
for both front wheels, and the use of scratch resistant plastic for the canopy.
The silent electric engines also make sound insulation redundant, allowing for
lighter material selection.
The E-3POD provides the user with easy, cost efficient transport with access
to easier parking due to the small footprint of the vehicle and the likelihood that
parking costs will continue to rise will further enhance the attractiveness of the
vehicle. The design also provides comfortable and isolated personal space,
which - when compared to bicycles or public transport - is a welcome addition.
The short length of the vehicle makes it agile in urban environments. At higher
speeds the E-3POD tilts slightly to provide solid grip and an emphasised stance,
giving cornering a more responsive feel.
Heikki Juvonen’s E-3POD Antistatic was chosen as the best overall design by representatives from Citroën’s Style Centre and Electric Vehicle Development
Team. As his prize, Heikki receives a six month employment contract to work
at the prestigious PSA Design Centre in Paris. Heikki commented, “I’m thrilled
Citroën selected my design as their favourite and I can’t wait to work with their
talented team in France. As a designer I strive for new and better solutions.
Good and sustainable design not only improves manufacturer brand image and
sales, but can also help to preserve our environment.”
The project was jointly sponsored by Citroën and EXA, a France-based
aerodynamic simulation software company. Citroen has a long association
with the Royal College of Art. Mark Lloyd, the chief designer of theCitroen DS3,
studied at the Royal College of Art.
04.jpg (24.88 KB. 530x298 - viewed 1 times.)Citroën had significant involvement throughout the Double Challenge project,
providing industry figures to lend the students their expertise and experience,
as well as organising a trip to the PSA Design Centre and Le Conservatoire,
Citroën’s in-house museum of historic models.
Philippe Holland, Responsable Style Graphique at Citroën, said; “We’re delighted
to be involved in this important RCA project. The students have produced
some truly exceptional ideas for the future design of electric Citroën vehicles.
This type of powertrain is increasingly recognised as an important solution for economically and environmentally viable urban transport; so it’s fantastic to
see the electric visions of these potential car designers of tomorrow.”
