VEHICLE DESIGN
My role in TOYOTA's concept car division was ever-changing and fluid. The goal from the beginning was to inspire the lead conceptor and team of engineers to create the future of TOYOTA. This was executed through fashion collaborations, installations, events, research, and focus groups. A worldwide network of artists and designers was created to develop TOYOTA's key concepts further. The network members were asked to submit an idea for a concept vehicle and I was awarded top prize and funding to complete research and design with a staff of 5. Much of the process is documented in the video below. Skip to 7:48.
Rooted in sustainability and human centered design, the idea was is that the personal mobility device does not need an external energy source. The pedaling of the vehicle charges the battery and propels the vehicle forward. The design was inspired by mussel shells, is very aerodynamic and has just enough internal space for 1 human, a small storage area and control panel.
I presented the vehicle at an International Symposium of 150 TOYOTA engineers in 2011.
The TOYOTA i-Road debuted in 2013 with a very similar design.
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SLIDE 2
Developed from the idea of adding protection from the elements to a bicycle. I explored the shape of aerodynamic enclosures by making quick and simple sculptural models out of post-its (bottom row), quick and dirty, in order to explore shapes quickly.
After decided on general shape, I created a larger model with wire and fabric (top left). From there I worked with an automotive stylist to create a paper model to scale (top row, center), then full renderings (top right, and center row).
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SLIDE 3
Top left, presenting the concept to engineers and leaders in the concept department. Top right, diagram showing the concept is at the intersection of exercising and driving.
Row 2, left. Research interview with bike commuter. Right, progression of design of vehicle from original sketch to final renderings.
Row 3, left. Snapshot of Qualitative Data Analysis during research phase of vehicle development.
Row 4, left. Human-Centered Design testing. Lifesize scale model of layout of vehicle to test height, length, seat placement, comfort and usability.
Bottom right. Illustrations reiterating concept, size comparability, and interior design.
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SLIDE 4
Quick car sketch ideas by me and other designers, presented to lead concept designer in early stage of vehicle competition.
MORE TOYOTA PROJECTS
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