A very interesting electric transportation concept was proposed by designer Marko Petrovic at this year's Movin'On Challenge Design (which was previously known as the Michelin Challenge Design). The theme of the 2023 iteration of the contest was Balancing Sustainability.
Petrovic addresses a real problem with his electric transportation concept—traffic jams and how people have unsustainable habits when commuting to work. The Concept NTU (NewTransportationUtility) is framed as a public service that emphasizes "people, profit, and planet." The transportation concept sits six people in a transparent pod. This pod is positioned on a solar-powered electric platform. Much like a tram or railway system, the pod has a fixed route. Petrovic proposes that his "powerful centralized utility service that runs on clean energy" can be funded by brands that can also expand the concept with "personalization packages for the car’s experience and the UI."
Electric Transportation Concepts
Marko Petrovic Balances Utility, Sustainability, and Demand
Trend Themes
1. Electric Public Transportation - Marko Petrovic's Concept NTU proposes a sustainable solution to traffic congestion through its solar-powered electric platform.
2. Branded Sustainable Transportation - Petrovic's proposal for funding through brand partnerships opens up opportunities for companies to promote their sustainable values.
3. Fixed-route Transportation - The fixed-route design of Concept NTU allows for consistent and reliable transportation for commuters in urban areas.
Industry Implications
1. Transportation - The transportation industry can explore incorporating emerging technologies and sustainable solutions to address the problem of traffic congestion.
2. Branding and Advertising - Companies can take advantage of the opportunity to partner with sustainable transportation models to promote their brand values.
3. Urban Planning and Development - In developing and expanding urban areas, policymakers and planners can look into adopting fixed-route public transportation systems like Concept NTU for increased sustainability and reduced congestion.