As we move towards a more sustainable and smarter future, the automotive industry is focusing on the development of fully autonomous and electric vehicles. With the transport sector accounting for over 20% of global CO2 emissions and people spending increasing amounts of time in traffic jams, companies are seeking innovative solutions for urban mobility. One such company, Pix Moving, believes that driverless autonomous vehicles are the key to transforming mobility in the coming years.
Introducing the Robobus prototype, a travel pod designed to provide not only a driverless transportation experience but also a “diversified shared mobility experience” centered around the passenger. The Robobus aims to offer additional functionalities to keep city dwellers entertained during their travel time, shifting focus away from the commute itself.
The Pix Robobus is a reconfigurable travel pod designed to cater to the passenger’s wants and needs. It can transform into a private lounge for relaxation after work, a library or reading nook, a mobile cafe, or even a private gym. The company states that Pix Moving aims to provide a “diversified shared mobility experience” and a new lifestyle for city dwellers, with safety being their top priority.
Built on Pix’s proprietary flexible and scalable Ultra-skateboard chassis platform, the autonomous vehicle boasts zen-like interiors and can accommodate up to six passengers simultaneously. The designers envision an urban network of Pix Robobus pods, transforming connected city commuting into reality. The Robobus is designed as the ideal shared mobility solution for short-distance rides, perfect for 3-5 kilometer (a couple of miles) journeys.
The Robobus is ideally suited for use at airports, industrial parks, university campuses, and even sightseeing. Its wheels are designed to move individually, allowing the vehicle to navigate tight spaces during commutes and park in confined spots. The skateboard-like chassis enables the wheelbase and wheel track to be reconfigured, increasing the Robobus’s versatility. This feature allows for more platform space when used as a gaming area, cafe, or lounge.
Although the Robobus has a small footprint, the company believes the possibilities for this travel pod are limitless. They mention other potential uses, including karaoke bars, unattended vending services, or even makeshift hotels.
In terms of technical specifications, the Robobus measures 3.8 meters in length, 1.9 meters in width, and 2.2 meters in height. Powered by a 21.5 kWh battery, the designers claim it will have a range of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) per charge and can travel at speeds between 15 and 30 kph (9.2-18.6 mph). The Robobus can fast charge in just 1.5 hours and slow charge in 5 hours.
Pix Moving states that the Robobus can hold up to six passengers, with a maximum payload of 510 kg (1,124 pounds). However, if passengers are carrying luggage, fewer people will be able to share the ride.
Although the designers suggest that the Robobus could serve as a taxi, its limited speed may not make it the ideal option for passengers in a hurry to reach their destinations. However, this type of autonomous vehicle holds great potential for small towns, campuses, and similar environments.
In conclusion, the Pix Robobus represents an exciting development in the world of urban mobility, offering a sustainable, versatile, and passenger-focused solution to the challenges of modern city life. As the automotive industry continues to evolve and innovate, the Robobus may well become an integral part of our daily commutes, transforming the way we experience urban transportation.
Source: Pix Moving
