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home / programmes / research associates / 2001 / urban mobility / urban moving
Shaun Hutchinson / Vehicle Design
urban moving 2030:
transport typologies for the future city
A design study which proposes new types of urban vehicles based on a critical assessment of anticipated changes in technology, demographics, user behaviour and the built environment.
The private motor car was for a long time seen as the key to personal mobility. But as city centres become more congested and dangerous due to mounting road traffic and accidents, there are now moves to price motor vehicles out of cities. As a result, automotive manufacturers are beginning to think radically about new ways to provide urban mobility for all. This Ford-backed study investigates the potential for hybrid public/private automotive city travel up to the year 2030. It proposes alternative methods of moving which combine personal privacy, comfort and ownership, albeit temporary, with the advantages of a reliable public service running along known routes.
Through detailed research, the project identified four major urban mobility tasks: commuting, entertainment-seeking, area visiting and dwelling (trips related to socialising or shopping for example). These formed the basis for the creation of four vehicle typologies that meet the user aspirations for each task. These vehicles were then placed in user scenarios to explore their role within an organised city mobility programme. The project will now go forward as the basis for PhD study at the Royal College of Art.
Take part in Shaun's continuing research at:
http://www.hoif.net
research partner: Ford Motor Company