The Smart Car concept is an admirable one, and while city streets become more congested and parking lots become fewer and far between, compact autos will rule the urban roads.
The TRW Folding Steering Wheel is a clever notion currently being developed by Michigan's TWR Automotive. In appreciating the advantages of smaller vehicles, they are attempting to remedy the state of cramped uncomfortable interiors by providing drivers with optimal space, and no expense to hi-tech and safety features of coups and compacts.
With the elderly in mind especially, the company's development manager, Manuel Poyant, believes that a retractable steering wheel that takes the form of withdrawing handlebars will more easily allow drivers increased accessibility when getting in and out of the automobile. The TRW Folding Steering Wheel will automatically draw itself into the dashboard when ever the engine is off.
What's Driving This Trend
- Retractable Steering Wheels
- Opportunity for innovative car interior design by incorporating retractable steering wheels for increased accessibility and space.
- Compact Car Innovations
- Potential for developing new technologies and features specifically tailored to compact car designs to enhance comfort and functionality.
- Elderly-friendly Automotive Solutions
- Possibility for creating specialized automotive solutions that cater to the needs and challenges faced by elderly drivers.
Who This Affects Most
- Automotive Industry
- Opportunities for car manufacturers to differentiate their offerings by incorporating retractable concept dashboards and developing compact car innovations.
- Design Industry
- Potential for designers to create innovative and ergonomic interiors for compact cars, focusing on maximizing space and accessibility.
- Assistive Technology Industry
- Opportunity for assistive technology companies to develop elderly-friendly solutions for automobiles, such as retractable steering wheels.
