(PR.co.nz) Introducing the EN-V concept – Holden’s space-aged vision for the future of city motoring to be showcased to the world at this year’s International Expo in Shanghai, China.
Checkout this link for details: http://media.gm.com/autoshows/Shanghai/2010/public/cn/en/env/news.html
A creation of Holden’s Port Melbourne design studio, the Electric Networked-Vehicle (EN-V) is a zero emissions, self-driving, two-wheel concept developed to help overcome big city issues of traffic congestion, parking availability and air quality. On show at General Motors’ pavilion at the World Expo from 1 May to 31 October, Holden’s work is one of three EN-V concepts developed by GM design studios from around the world. Each features its own unique design theme that points to future transport trends. Holden’s small, pod-like design was developed according to the theme of “cute and friendly”, emphasizing the enjoyable nature of future motoring. In Chinese it is known as Xiao, meaning to “to laugh”.
The other EN-V designs, created by GM studios in Europe and the US, are nicknamed Jiao “Pride” and Miao “Magic”. The EN-V was produced in partnership with innovative urban transport manufacturer, Segway, and is powered by electric motors in each of its two wheels. The motors provide power for acceleration and braking and cater for a travel range of at least 40 kilometers per charge. Breakthrough global positioning technology allows the EN-V to be driven by the occupant or via an onboard computer system that chooses the fastest route based on real-time traffic information.
Holden Design Director Tony Stolfo said the EN-V project was carried out by many young designers within the Holden studio whose talents will be recognised on the world stage. “This work has really broken the mould of the projects we undertake within the Holden design studio,” Mr Stolfo said. “The fact that our young designers were able to run with this project and develop it to such a high level really speaks volumes for the advanced design capabilities within Australia.
“It has meant moving away from designing the traditional elements of a motor vehicle to develop new themes and technologies that might someday define the way we live our lives.
“Much of what we have learned during this project will help us in our ongoing efforts to meet the many transport challenges associated with a growing population.”
A multi-disciplined team within the Holden studio worked on the EN-V concept over 15 months. Design Manager Aaron Deneweth oversaw the project and Lead Designer Frank Rudolph was responsible for the final exterior theme.
A group led by Holden’s Chief Designer of Colour and Trim, Sharon Gauci, worked alongside the Australian, European and US studios to develop the colours and materials required for each EN-V concept.
The project was inspired by GM’s Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility (PUMA) prototype developed in conjunction with Segway in 2009.
Media Release 8 April 2010 from Holden New Zealand.