The Interior Design of Research Demonstrators for Modular and Urban Last Mile Applications

Abstract

Modularity is the smartest way to fit our vehicles to various specific needs optimizing on the materials, energy demand and user comfort. Therefore, we want to introduce human centered design approaches on our modular vehicle concepts: The Urban Modular Vehicle (UMV) and the U-Shift. The concept of the UMV vehicle family combines various derivatives for different use-cases. The UMV vehicle family consists of driver-controlled vehicles and automated movers for transporting people and goods. Another strategy for an electric, modular and automated concept is the U-Shift. It consists of the U-shaped Driveboard and different capsules as a loading unit. The Driveboard includes everything what is needed for (automated) driving like electrical drivetrain, steering, lifting system and automation system with sensors. With the lifting system, the Driveboard can lower itself, move into position, and the load the capsule via a rail system.