Question

Mobility and Vehicle Design
Description: A company is planning to introduce an electric two-wheeler taxi in the city of Banaras (Varanasi) for local commuters and pilgrims. Design an electric two-wheeler taxi by identifying at least five distinct and essential factors that will make it relevant for the city of Banaras in terms of function and aesthetics.

Answer 1

Design Proposal:

Factors to Consider:

• Compact and Easy to Navigate: Banaras is a city known for its narrow alleys and heavy pedestrian traffic. The vehicle should be compact, with a smaller turning radius, making it easy to navigate through the bustling streets of the city.
• Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: As Banaras is a heritage city, it’s important to align with the eco-conscious vision. The electric vehicle will contribute to cleaner air and reduce noise pollution, fitting the city’s heritage preservation goals.
• Tourism-Friendly Design: Given the large number of pilgrims and tourists visiting Banaras, the vehicle must have a design that accommodates tourists’ luggage or comfort needs. The vehicle should have ample space for carrying small bags or religious items.
• Low Speed for Safety and Accessibility: Given the busy streets and heavy pedestrian traffic, the vehicle should be designed for low speeds, making it safe for both passengers and pedestrians. This will also ensure comfort during travel through congested areas.
• Cultural Aesthetic Integration: The design should resonate with the local culture of Banaras. Aesthetically, the vehicle should reflect the city’s iconic features like its traditional ghats, temples, and vibrant colors. The design can integrate traditional motifs in a modern style.

Side Elevation Sketch:

Perspective Sketch:

Material Selection for Vehicle Body:

• Frame Material: The vehicle frame should be constructed from lightweight, durable materials such as aluminum alloy or carbon fiber composites to ensure strength while reducing overall weight.
• Body Panels: For the exterior panels, a high-quality ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) plastic is ideal as it is lightweight, impact-resistant, and suitable for molded components.
• Seating Material: The seating should be made from water-resistant, eco-friendly synthetic leather or vegan leather that provides comfort for the passengers, especially pilgrims who may sit for extended periods.
• Battery: The battery should be a lithium-ion type, which is widely used in electric vehicles for its high energy density and relatively long lifespan. It will provide sufficient range for the taxi in a city like Banaras.
• Wheels and Tires: The tires should be robust, with good grip to handle the rugged and often slippery streets around the ghats. Rubberized tires with anti-puncture technology are ideal.

Evaluation Criteria:

• User-centric design considerations, form, feasibility and effectiveness of design solution.
• Quality of sketch, originality and appropriateness of materials.