MULO:
Last Mile Mobility
Speculation on the future of urban transportation.
Individual / Spring 2024 / 5 weeks
Future Story
Urbanization has surged dramatically over the past decade, with nearly 90% of working-age individuals now residing in sprawling urban centers. To support and accelerate this urban migration, the federal government has been actively subsidizing the development of densely populated, mixed-use urban districts. These initiatives also include financial and policy incentives aimed at encouraging residents to downsize their living spaces, promoting a more compact and sustainable urban lifestyle.
As urban populations have swelled, traditional vehicular traffic has become untenable in city centers. In response, authorities have implemented strict bans on cars in these areas, transforming them into vibrant, pedestrian-friendly zones that buzz with activity and foster a sense of community. However, this shift has intensified the so-called "last mile" problem, where the final leg of a person's journey becomes disproportionately inconvenient and time-consuming, affecting a vast majority of city dwellers.
This growing urban density and the challenges it brings have finally pushed government agencies to confront environmental issues that have long been exacerbated by urban expansion. After decades of public advocacy and mounting environmental crises, there is now a concerted effort to curb the relentless exploitation of natural resources. Significant investments are being channeled into the research and development of sustainable biomaterials, signaling a shift towards more eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
In a groundbreaking move, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that all new vehicles be constructed primarily from bio-composite materials. This regulation marks a pivotal step in reducing the ecological footprint of the transportation sector.
Parallel to these developments, artificial intelligence (AI) has become deeply integrated into every facet of urban life, particularly in transportation systems. Modern AI capabilities, characterized by lightning-fast processing speeds and advanced, highly sophisticated models, enable a seamless fusion of technology and daily operations. This integration not only enhances efficiency but also improves the quality of urban living, making cities smarter and more responsive to the needs of their inhabitants.
Distraction
Battery tech
Disorganization
Ergonomics
End of life
Activation
Concerns
Current electric scooter systems have garnered a wide range of complaints, including issues with distracted riders, poor stability, fire hazards, organization, ergonomics, and end-of-life problems. There are many design opportunities to create a more user-friendly and environmentally conscious product.
Concept
Three-wheeled - Magnetic charging dock - Heads-up display - Autonomous homing
Mulo reimagines the urban scooter as a safer and more convenient alternative to existing systems. By combining emerging technologies with a user-centered design, Mulo complies with the stricter regulations guiding the manufacture of personal vehicles and prioritizes the well-being of its users.
Material
Material selection played a significant role in the design language of Mulo. Bamboo, which is 2-3 times stronger by weight than steel, is currently emerging in the automotive industry, among others, as a viable fiber reinforcement when paired with other inorganic compounds. With further research and investment, bamboo has the potential to be a major disruptor in future product manufacturing. During the design process, I considered using a high-strength bamboo composite, possibly interwoven with carbon fiber, to increase strength.
Phone sequestering and battery removal.
Users are meant to approach a scooter and insert their phone. Mulo instantly recognizes the patron as an authorized member through NFC technology and activates the scooter for use. Phones click into place, are safely stored, and wirelessly charged. Phone sequestering keeps riders from becoming distracted by keeping the distraction out of reach. The Solid state battery unit is removable to make on-the-go charging convenient.
Heads-up display, comfort grip handles, twist throttle/brake
Mulo Docking
Next Steps
- Autonomous homing/hailing
- UI/UX
- App
- Internal Mechanics
