C ity life in the car may look very different in the near future with the Audi Cetus - a hydrogen-powered, zero-emission city concept car, designed to change everyday city travel. Aerodynamics reduces energy consumption and forms part of a future design aesthetic. The smooth curves and streamlined shell mimics the movement of a swimming fish, in an effort to correlate the similarities of the hydrodynamic properties of marine creatures with the aerodynamic performance of the car. This results to an energetic and distinctive form that is formulated by little details, such as the flow of the exterior shell. The design is primarily concerned with the forces of drag and lift, which are caused by air passing over and around the car body in motion. The car embraces various elements and combines functionality, quiet operation and aerodynamic performance. Along with, it also adds to the aesthetics of the vehicle and its exterior looks, leading to a more dramatic change in overall appearance and performance of a vehicle. The windows are designed to allow as much light as possible to enter. The use of electrochromic glass gives the possibility of dimming by pressing a powered switch in order to control the level of illumination of the interior. On the back, surfaces curve smoothly into one another and embrace the back wheels, creating a wraparound, retractable boot that opens like a drawer. Additional security features include smart sensors in the vehicle. The low profile was developed and customised extensively after ergonomic trials in order to minimise the height of the car and subsequently the air turbulence on the back. The concept car was designed by Niko Kapa who was awarded the highest distinction at the European Product Design Awards, which recognises the most outstanding design worldwide. The innovative design of Audi Cetus received Platinum Prize in the transportation category. www.engineeringnews.co.nz 15
EN-June2017-eMag2
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