MDI’s AirPod was a hit at the 2009 Geneva Car Show. The car runs on compressed air, so it is non-polluting. The bubble-like body style isn’t the only version that will be available. MDI plans to make a standard chassis upon which different bodies can be fit to suit. Airlines Air France and KLM in Paris and Amsterdam will begin trials with the MDI AirPod starting in May.
A joystick is used to steer the car. Doors open to the front and back. There are two rear-facing passenger seats that can be replaced with a cargo space. Weight and costs are both held low because unlike electric cars, there are no batteries.
A public transportation model is in the works as well. According to the MDI website, "The MultiFlowAIR is a new urban public transport concept in the form of a train on wheels, comprising of a driver’s car and several wagons." The company claims that this vehicle will be so cost-effective that municipalities will be able to completely fund it with on-board advertisements.
As we harness the power of the wind for electricity, so it appears, we can compress air for a cost-effective, eco-friendly vehicle fuel.
The video above is the first of a two-part interview that answers basic questions about the car. The video below is a French-language interview with Guy Negre of MDI conducted at the 2009 Geneva Car Show.
Joystick-Controlled Cars
The MDI Air Car at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show (UPDATE)
Trend Themes
1. Compressed Air Vehicles - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in the automotive industry by developing and marketing vehicles that run on compressed air instead of traditional fuel sources.
2. Joystick-controlled Cars - Potential for disruptive innovation in the automotive industry by designing cars with joystick steering controls, offering a unique and user-friendly driving experience.
3. Cost-effective Urban Transportation - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in the transportation industry by creating economical and eco-friendly public transportation systems that can be funded through on-board advertisements.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The automotive industry can explore the development and production of compressed air vehicles and joystick-controlled cars to stay ahead of the competition and cater to evolving customer preferences.
2. Transportation - The transportation industry can focus on developing cost-effective urban transportation solutions that reduce environmental impact and offer sustainable alternatives to traditional modes of travel.
3. Advertising - The advertising industry can explore partnership opportunities with public transportation providers to incorporate on-board advertisements into their services, creating a new avenue for reaching target audiences.