The Inspirations Collection.
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Welcome to designbivouac’s inspiration collection.
Exploring design and innovation.
Over 30 years of collaboration, designbivouac has uncovered lasting insights. Inspirations is a curated collection of inspirational objects and ideas shaping a continuous journey of creative exploration.
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Ursa Minor for JLUR
The bivouac hopes the Ursa Minor J30 pop-up camper hard top for the Jeep JL Rubicon Unlimited is worth the wait.
The bivouac hopes the Ursa Minor J30 pop-up camper hard top for the Jeep JL Rubicon Unlimited is worth the wait. Long intrigued by how the company’s current product transforms the JK into a platform for serious overlanding and…well…bivouacking; it would be great to see the company refine the design and make it available for Jeep’s newer JL and Gladiator lines soon. According to the company’s website, production for the JL was supposed to start in January, so they may already be on it.
Created to explore color and feature options, the image above is a quick visualization of what the bivouac hopes to see from the company. And, of course, the JLUR accessories from AEV are also eagerly awaited.
One good thing about the wait is that the diesel version of the JLUR Rubicon is now out, offering more torque, fuel economy, and hopefully reliability than other engine options in the FCA lineup. Who knows, maybe the plug-in hybrid will be around the corner despite the general assumption it won’t be available until around 2022. Well, good things are generally worth the wait.
Rendering created by the biviouac. Hopefully something like this will soon be available for the JLUR from Ursa Minor.
RIvian: Runnig Circles Around the Competition
Rivian has covered some impressive ground recently, having developed its own proprietary electric mobility chassis targeted at the pickup truck segment. From designing unique cross-vehicle body storage options to setting new benchmarks for robustness and predicted range, the folks at Rivian keep admirably pushing the edge of what has previously been possible with trucks. And now they have released a Tank Turn video that serves as an exciting reminder that there is much to come with the introduction of electric mobility platforms in the years to come. By modulating output directly from its four motors, the Rivian demonstrates a nimbleness that will stop others in their tracks. Now, that’s a turn for the better.
The Sur-Ron Is Spot On!
The bivouac has been impressed by recent videos highlighting the surprising capabilities of the Sur-Ron electric bike, proving that companies like Tesla are not alone in disrupting mobility as we know it.
The bivouac has been impressed by recent videos highlighting the surprising capabilities of the Sur-Ron electric bike, proving that companies like Tesla are not alone in disrupting mobility as we know it. Check out what Electric Cycle Rider says while shaking down a Sur-Ron and watch it perform while racing. It is still early in the electric bike segment, so reaching these performance levels is impressive. While riders are dialing in brakes, forks, and other components, the Sur-Ron platform, in particular, is amazing right out of the box. Even so, companies like Luna Cycle are finding new ways to get even more out of their Sur-Rons by adding belt drives by Gates and even engineering their high-output batteries. Watch this space and keep up if you can. 2020 looks to be another fast-moving year for this segment.
Moonrise Podcast is a World Apart
The Moonrise podcast series takes a unique look at what it took for NASA to reach the moon.
The bivouac just finished the podcast from the Washington Post entitled “Moonrise.” The series takes a unique look at what it took for NASA to reach the moon. Packed with beautiful insights about the American and Russian space programs, the podcast takes a heavily covered topic and empowers listeners to take the journey anew with a fresh perspective. Take the journey to the ultimate bivouac and download the podcast series today.
Hassel + EOC Envision a Home on Mars
Congratulations to Hassell + EOC for crafting an inspirational bivouac for use on Mars. For many, conceptualizing habitation on Mars evokes the curiosity and optimism that was once experienced by many during the beginning of the space age.
Congratulations to Hassell + EOC for crafting an inspirational bivouac for use on Mars. For many, conceptualizing habitation on Mars evokes the curiosity and optimism once experienced by those taking part in earlier lunar exploration programs like Apollo. The 3D printed habitation concept is a beautifully considered design that accommodates constraints, builds on modular redundancy, anticipates harsh conditions of the red planet, and provides for the essential needs of a new generation of human explorers.
The Hassel + EOC concept of "Envision a Home on Mars" represents an innovative and forward-thinking approach to the prospect of human habitation on the Red Planet. This visionary project aims to design a feasible and sustainable living space for future Martian settlers, taking into account the challenges of the Martian environment while prioritizing the well-being and functionality of its inhabitants. With an inner inflatable living area architecture surrounded by a solid 3D printed structure made up on Martian soil, the facility will have dual layers of protection from atmospheric conditions. The design integrates cutting-edge technology, such as 3D printing and the use of local resources, to create a modular and adaptable living environment. It focuses on maximizing efficiency and self-sustainability, emphasizing features such as radiation protection, life support systems, and robust structures capable of withstanding the harsh Martian conditions. This concept envisions a habitat that fosters a sense of community and well-being while pushing the boundaries of architectural and technological innovation in the pursuit of establishing a viable human presence on Mars.
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Pro AirPod Pro
The bivouac has had a pair of Apple Pod Pro headphones for over a week. Performance has been impressive.
The Apple Air Pod Pros have come along at a time when one would think that performance was pretty much at its apogee. The bivouac has been fortunate to use in-ear and on-ear noise-canceling headphones from manufacturers, including Bose, Sony, Bang, and Olufsen. Apple’s newest Air Pod Pro represents a genuine change in comfort and performance over the competition.
Apple’s noise-canceling technology does an excellent job of providing a private sanctuary, regardless of where you are. The technology works surprisingly well in busy open-plan offices, commuter trains, or airplane flights with fussy infants. The audio quality is excellent. New nuances of songs can be heard when listening to favorite tracks. This is the case at the high end and low in the bass range, allowing you to enjoy your music collection anew.
Long-term wearability has been an issue with other in-ear headphones, with some causing chaffing, but there are no signs of that with Apple’s new iPod Pros. Fit is remarkably comfortable. The shape of the ear covering is “squircular”, or rectangular with rounded corners, which, depending upon the shape of your ear, aids in seamless sealing. This provides the first line of defense from unwanted ambient noise. Aesthetics are better with these headphones as well. The earphones are a bit more subtle. The descending microphone elements are shorter, and angle slightly inward to more naturally follow the profile of the outer ear.
Apple has fit an impressive amount of technology into these tiny but powerful headphones. With the Air Pod Pros, Apple has pushed the packaging envelope even further to accommodate the active noise-canceling technology. Controls are well thought out, providing an intuitive haptic sensation associated with clicking the headphones. One-click pauses playback. Two clicks advance a track. A long hold toggles through “active noise canceling,” “transparency,” and “off” modes.
While familiar, the case takes a bit of getting used to. Grasping the Air Pod Pros to take them out of the case can be tricky, and placing them back into their recesses is more involved. Thankfully, there are still magnets assisting the Airpods in finding their place. That said, if the case is dropped, they are not strong enough to keep the AirPods anchored, and they will most likely launch out of the case. Another nice touch is the subtle but distinctively pleasant scent of the Air Pod Pro ear pads. There is no funky plastic or rubber scent here. It smells more like how one might imagine a desirable blue-sky future smelling.
Charge levels seem fine for use throughout the day, and topping up the charge in the case and is quick and straightforward. Pairing is also straightforward and similar to the method used with the original Air Pod case.
Transparency mode gives one a sense of almost having superhuman powers. Reminiscent of The Bionic Man, conversations or announcements around you come through clearly. They made presenters at a conference compromised by ambient noise easier to hear. In summary, Apple’s Air Pod Pros are much more than an incremental innovation.
Note: Since this original post was published, Apple has improved the Airpods, offering a second-generation version available from Amazon via the link below.
As an Amazon Associate, designbivouac may benefit/earn from qualifying purchases.
Titles Tell the Story
The opening titles of the second season of Amazon Prime’s Jack Ryan series do a remarkable job of setting the stage for the drama. Conveying the dual nature of Jack Ryan’s life as a CIA analyst and a reluctant field operative; the sequence uses a split-screen approach, juxtaposing images for both of Jack’s worlds.
The opening titles of the second season of Amazon Prime’s Jack Ryan series do a remarkable job of setting the stage for the drama. Conveying the dual nature of Jack Ryan’s life as a CIA analyst and a reluctant field operative; the sequence uses a split-screen approach, juxtaposing images for both of Jack’s worlds. Baseballs interplay with grenades. Overhead views of cargo ships fade into Marine Corps rank ribbons. An airspeed dial completes a commuter bike wheel. Ryan’s broken spine x-ray aligns with a row of boneyard aircraft, once the backbone of America’s Air Force. Created by Imaginary Forces, the title sequence is a 90-second masterpiece of visual storytelling.
Imaginary Forces is a renowned design firm celebrated for its creativity and innovation in branding, motion graphics, and visual storytelling. With a diverse portfolio spanning over two decades, the firm has made its mark in entertainment, technology, and advertising. Imaginary Forces is known for its ability to seamlessly blend art and technology, producing captivating and memorable visual experiences for a wide range of clients. Their work often includes designing opening sequences for films and television shows, creating striking brand identities, and developing immersive multimedia installations. The firm's unique approach combines a deep understanding of narrative with cutting-edge design techniques, consistently pushing the boundaries of visual communication and leaving a lasting impact in the design and entertainment industries.
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Robust Storytelling: Defending a Legacy
Since its inception 70 years ago, the Land Rover Defender has undergone the most extensive redesign. All but the most hard-core traditionalists seem impressed with how designers have balanced the need to bring the marque into the 21st century while maintaining ties to its heritage.
Since its inception 70 years ago, the Land Rover Defender has undergone the most extensive redesign. All but the most hard-core traditionalists seem impressed with how designers have balanced the need to bring the marque into the 21st century while maintaining ties to its heritage. Regardless of how the new design strikes you, one has to recognize how adept Land Rover has become at telling launch and feature stories with clear explanations of the vehicle’s sophisticated design, capabilities, technology, and masterful filming of the Defender going through its paces across a range of unique terrain.
The Defender continues to redefine the boundaries of luxury and off-road capability. Its rugged yet refined design, the Defender effortlessly combines the classic Defender heritage with modern innovations. Its advanced engineering ensures top-tier performance, with powerful engines and sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems. The interior blends opulence and practicality, featuring high-quality materials, state-of-the-art technology, and versatile seating configurations. Whether navigating challenging off-road terrain or cruising through city streets, the 2023 Range Rover Defender exemplifies the epitome of versatility and luxury, making it an ideal choice for adventurers and urbanites.
Land Rover Evoque Photo Shoot
Land Rover recently refined the all-new Evoque to align with the marque’s new design language. To celebrate the creative activity of refining a point of view, Land Rover commissioned several photographers (including San Francisaco’s own Nikk La) to capture new perspectives on the cities they love, and the Evoque came along for the ride. Check out the series via Cool Hunting.
Land Rover recently refined the all-new Evoque to align with the marque’s new design language. To celebrate the creative activity of refining a point of view, Land Rover commissioned several photographers (including San Francisco’s own Nikk La) to capture new perspectives on the cities they love, and the Evoque came along for the ride. Check out the series via Cool Hunting.
Apollo Memories Have Us Looking Up
The Apollo launch multimedia piece shown upon and around the Washington Monument is an inspiring piece of storytelling and visualization.
The Apollo launch multimedia piece shown upon and around the Washington Monument is an inspiring piece of storytelling and visualization. It masters constraints beautifully, and the venue replicates the shared experience that those witnessing the launch and moon landing must have felt…albeit on a smaller scale. This liftoff will lift your spirits as we face our troubling times and contrast that with a vision of reaching Mars.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing, the Washington Monument hosted an Apollo Space Launch Celebration, presenting a captivating event that commemorated the historic achievements of the Apollo space program. Held at the iconic Washington Monument in the heart of the nation's capital, this celebration pays tribute to the extraordinary efforts that led to humanity's first steps on the moon. The event featured awe-inspiring projections on the monument, showcasing the incredible journey of the Apollo missions to space. The Washington Monument, a symbol of American ingenuity and determination, serves as a fitting backdrop for this celebration of human exploration, science, and the enduring spirit of discovery that characterized the Apollo program. It's an occasion that unites people to celebrate one of the most significant achievements in the history of space exploration.
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Charged Up about Future Overlanding
Rivian showed up at Overland Expo West with a bivouac-capable version of its electric pickup truck.
Rivian made its debut at Overland Expo West with a bivouac-capable version of its electric pickup truck. The unique pass-through storage space behind the passenger compartment features an overlanding kitchen equipped with an inductive cook range and a sink with an electric pump. All accessories draw upon the 180 kW battery. Although this is just a concept for now, it gets one thinking about the future promise of zero-emission overlanding just around the bend.
Demonstrating more out-of-the-box thinking, Rivian will create an overlanding kitchen kit that slides out of the gear tunnel behind the rear seats and just under the front of the bed. This is just another great example of the myriad of vehicle packaging options that are being opened up by electric powertrain options.
Hobie Revolution 13
Having dusted off the Hobie Revolution 13 in the last couple of weeks, the bivouac is reminded of just how aptly it is named; the Hobie Revolution 13 represents a remarkable kayak revolution.
Having dusted off the Hobie Revolution 13 in the last couple of weeks, the bivouac is reminded of just how aptly it is named; the Hobie Revolution 13 represents a remarkable kayak revolution. Offering excellent stability in the water and superior ergonomic positioning over the last generation of sea kayaks, the Hobie Revolution 13 is designed to allow users to sit on it rather than in it. The lightweight seat is breathable and fully adjustable thanks to its integrated BOA-powered lumbar adjustment system and other thoughtful angle adjustments.
Coupled with the ground-breaking Hobie Mirage Drive, it transforms occupants into superheroes. Covering longer distances that would have once crushed one’s back and shoulders is now child’s play. The Mirage Drive is a remarkable piece of design and engineering. It empowers riders to move through the water quickly for long periods. Modeled after how penguins shift their fins through the water, the fins turn back and forth while pivoting, ensuring an unheard-of efficiency. Excellent ergonomics keep back fatigue at bay and allow occupants a more upright view, freeing them to focus more on their surroundings.
An ingenious rudder system rounds out the offering, providing agile and easily controllable handling and subtle wind offset functionality. Overall, the Hobie Revolution 13 is a well-rounded, stable platform upon which to move at speed or fish confidently. Two thumbs up and paddle raised high from the bivouac!
Oroville Dam Spillway
Last week, The California Department of Water Resources opened the gates of the Oroville Reservoir. Water flowed dramatically down the chute (the width of a twelve-lane highway with a center divider) for the first time since the spillway failed a couple of years ago, forcing the evacuation of over 100,000 residents downstream.
Last week, The California Department of Water Resources opened the gates of the Oroville Reservoir. Water flowed dramatically down the chute (the width of a twelve-lane highway with a center divider) for the first time since the spillway failed a couple of years ago, forcing the evacuation of over 100,000 residents downstream.
This has been a fantastic feat of engineering and a project of inspirational scale. It is nice to see we can complete projects like this in a timely and safe fashion. The spillway works as designed and is a thing of awe and beauty. Thanks to all who worked tirelessly on the project to ensure the safety of California’s crucial water supply. And thanks to DWR for doing such a fantastic job of capturing the progress of the project, which can be viewed here.
The Oroville Dam spillway reconstruction project, undertaken after the crisis of 2017, stands as a monumental engineering effort to restore the damaged infrastructure and enhance the safety of the Oroville Dam, one of California's critical water supply and flood control facilities. The crisis unfolded when heavy rainfall and erosion caused severe damage to the main and emergency spillways, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents downstream. In response, a massive reconstruction project was initiated to rectify the damage and ensure the long-term integrity of the dam.
The project, estimated to cost over a billion dollars, was a collaborative effort involving various state and federal agencies, engineering firms, and construction companies. It entailed meticulously reconstructing the main and emergency spillways, employing modern engineering techniques and materials to enhance their resilience and capacity. Engineers and construction teams faced significant challenges, from coordinating the massive concrete pours to ensuring the project's timely completion before the next rainy season. Furthermore, safety features were incorporated into the design to mitigate future risks and protect the communities downstream.
The Oroville Dam spillway reconstruction project represents not only a remarkable feat of engineering and construction but also a testament to the importance of maintaining and improving critical infrastructure for water management and flood control. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and expertise required to safeguard communities and resources in the face of natural disasters and underscores the ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of California's water supply and flood control systems.
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Stålenhag’s Extraordinary Visual Storytelling
With a long-standing interest in future visualizations at the bivouac, the style and substance of Simon Stålenhag’s illustrations have left quite the impression. Stålenhag’s masterful illustrative technique is remarkable in and of itself. Still, his unique ability to seamlessly blend the world we know today with new and unfamiliar future technologies makes his work genuinely distinct.
Stålenhag’s command of visualizations portrays powerful story arcs without needing the written word. He is exceptionally skilled at capturing a sense of expansive scale. He does this by placing huge, futuristic objects into what would otherwise be commonplace landscapes. This juxtaposition, accompanied by a remarkable lighting command and a clarity of focus applied to some regions of the composition, further enhances a dramatic sense of expansiveness.
Another device Stålenhag uses is placing human beings in vulnerable situations with new forms of technology. Children or parents with children are seen navigating a landscape strewn with disused “old future” technologies or avoiding those who seem to be searching for them. Placing today’s emergent technology in such matter-of-fact settings and often applying an aged patina to technologies we have yet to know is powerful. Work like this can help encourage us to ask important questions about the technology we are bringing into the world at an increasing pace and why we might want to think more carefully about doing so.
To view more of Stålenhag’s work, visit: https://www.simonstalenhag.se/
Cruisers Yachts 338
Companies like Cruisers Yachts deserve recognition as they push for more innovation in smaller and more modest sizes.
Companies like Cruisers Yachts deserve recognition as they push for more innovation in smaller and more modest sizes. And they are doing so while still offering stunning vessels. Witness the 2019 Cruiser Yachts 338 South Beach Edition.
It is a stunning yet pragmatic approach to designing a smaller yacht that can meet the needs of those setting out for a long weekend. The innovative rear seating, generous forward gunnel side storage, and an asymmetric passway through to the front bow area all distinguish the 338’s design. The rear platform even works well with the newest version of the 338 that incorporates outboard propulsion.
The generous berth below the foredeck has a modern and minimalist ambiance. Thoughtful integration sinks, refrigerators and microwaves, and an accessible rear swim platform show great attention to detail and sensitivity to balancing pragmatism with style. A powered extending bimini top helps provide shade for a large portion of the aft deck if desired. The rear swim platform provides a generous space to access the water, while an ingenious powered seat solution provides multi-position sun seating for lounging or socializing. Rear outboard propulsion is an option as well.
In a world in need of downsizing and the age of mega yachts, it is great to see companies offering solutions that are more appropriate in the context of the world economy today that still push design forward.
Volvo's New Shining Star
Volvo’s Polestar helped shape perceptions of the brand’s performance capabilities. Now, Volvo has announced the Polestar 2, which will usher the brand into new, fully electric vehicle territory.
Volvo’s Polestar division has already played a key role in reshaping the brand’s identity, showcasing its ability to deliver refined performance with a modern edge. Now, with the launch of the Polestar 2, Volvo is charting a bold course into the fully electric future. This sleek, all-electric fastback blends Scandinavian design with cutting-edge technology, marking a significant step in the brand’s sustainability journey. If Volvo can continue to build on the momentum and innovation that Polestar represents, it’s clear that this guiding star is lighting the way toward a bright and electrified future.
The Volvo Polestar 2 is a standout electric vehicle (EV) that embodies Volvo's commitment to sustainability and innovation. As part of the Polestar brand, Volvo's electric performance division, the Polestar 2 offers a unique blend of style, performance, and environmental consciousness in the luxury electric vehicle market.
One of the most distinctive features of the Polestar 2 is its design, which strikes a balance between modern minimalism and Scandinavian luxury. The clean lines and uncluttered interior create an inviting and spacious cabin. The vehicle's infotainment system, powered by Google's Android Automotive OS, provides a user-friendly and highly connected experience. Drivers and passengers can enjoy a range of innovative features, including voice control, navigation, and various apps.
In terms of performance, the Polestar 2 offers an impressive electric powertrain. It features a dual-motor setup that delivers all-wheel drive and robust acceleration. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds, offering a sporty driving experience. With a large battery pack, the Polestar 2 boasts an estimated range of over 200 miles on a single charge, making it practical for daily commutes and longer journeys. Its commitment to sustainability is further underscored by its use of vegan materials in the interior and a focus on reducing its carbon footprint throughout its production and usage. The Volvo Polestar 2 represents a compelling option for those looking to combine luxury, performance, and eco-friendliness in an electric vehicle.
Micromobility: The Next Big Thing
It was great to be able to attend the first micromobility conference recently held in the Bay Area. One talk that stood out was Horace Dediu’s which pointed to the clear opportunities that exist as we move forward with subsequent innovation in the micromobility space. A piece related to his talk can be found here.
The Micromobility Conference Series is an influential and dynamic forum dedicated to exploring the future of urban transportation through the lens of micromobility. These conferences bring together industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and enthusiasts to discuss and promote sustainable, compact modes of transportation, such as e-scooters, electric bicycles, and other small, efficient vehicles. The series serves as a hub for sharing insights, ideas, and solutions aimed at addressing urban congestion, reducing emissions, and promoting more accessible and eco-friendly transportation options. Attendees can expect to engage in lively discussions, network with like-minded professionals, and gain valuable insights into the rapidly evolving field of micromobility, which plays a crucial role in shaping the future of urban mobility and improving the quality of life in cities worldwide.
Pioneering Women In Vehicle Design
Artsy’s “The Pioneering Women Who Designed Car Interiors in the 1950s” article highlights the notable contributions and innovations that a group of women designers at GM were responsible for in the mid-1950s.
Artsy’s “The Pioneering Women Who Designed Car Interiors in the 1950s” article highlights the notable contributions and innovations that a group of women designers at GM were responsible for in the mid-1950s.
More recently, examples such as BMW’s E89 Z4, arguably one of BMW’s best-looking vehicles designed to date, was also designed by women. Juliane Blasi and Nadya Arnaout designed the E89’s exterior and interior design, respectively. Together, they brought far more character and elegance to the series than prior versions. Learn more about their perspectives via the BMW blog interview and in this article in the New York Times. These are just two examples that serve as powerful evidence that the automobile industry only stands to benefit from more diversity. As we move towards the promise of a new Age of Automobility, this increased diversity will be even more essential as an increasing number of perspectives will be needed to address the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The “Damsels of Design” | photo: General Motors
On the Line: Julian Blasi, Exterior Designer for the BMW E89 shapes the outlines of the third generation Z4.
The Z4’s Beauty…Inside and Out: Nadya Arnaout shaped the progressive, yet classic lines and materials of the E89 roadster interior.
Vehicle Interiors for New Purposes
While companies continue to do interesting and beautiful vehicle interior concept work, a wide range of new configurations for accommodating vehicle occupants remains to be explored.
While companies continue to do interesting and beautiful vehicle interior concept work, configurations for accommodating vehicle occupants remain to be explored. As we move towards a new era of Automobility driven by autonomous technology, how might we work or socialize in vehicles when we no longer have to be as attentive to the driving demands we face today?
We are in the midst of a transformative shift in how we perceive and interact with automobiles, placing a strong emphasis on sustainability, connectivity, and user experience. For many, the traditional concept of car ownership may give way to a more sustainable and accessible model of shared and autonomous mobility. This is a world where smart, electric, and self-driving vehicles seamlessly integrate into urban ecosystems, reducing congestion, emissions, and the overall impact on the environment.
At the core of the future of automobility is the idea of the car as a service, where users can summon a vehicle tailored to their specific needs and preferences through a seamless, on-demand mobility platform. The driving experience is reimagined as a multi-modal journey, incorporating not just autonomous cars but also public transport, e-bikes, and scooters, creating a holistic transportation system that's not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. This vision extends to the design of the vehicle itself, emphasizing modularity, flexibility, and adaptability, allowing cars to evolve with changing user needs and technological advancements.
Additionally, a profound shift in the design and user interface of vehicles is coming. In the future, the car will become an extension of the home or office, offering a seamless, connected experience with integrated technology, augmented reality, and personalized environments. With a strong focus on user-centric design, today’s automotive creatives can make automobility not just efficient but also enjoyable, promoting a vision where the future of transportation is more sustainable, accessible, and deeply attuned to the needs of individuals and communities.
Take a closer look at a few explorations via IDEO’s Future of Automobility project summary.
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BMW R1250 GS Display
Many BMW boxer hours have been logged here at the bivouac, but the 2019 BMW R1250 Adventure represents a serious step forward in development and refinement.
Many BMW boxer hours have been logged here at the bivouac, but the 2019 BMW R1250 Adventure represents a serious step forward in development and refinement. Even coming from the world of the superlative K1600GT, the new telematics and interface options for 2019 seem leaps and bounds ahead.
With a crisp and bold Thin-Film-Transistor (or TFT) display, BMW has upped both the functionality and legibility of their displays and they are making them standard across many more models this year. With robust integration of phone features, including playing audio and providing turn-by-turn navigation prompting, plus a slew of adjustability and informational displays about any given bike setting, this seems like a must-have feature that quite a bit of design effort and development has gone into.
Significant Redesign: The 2019 GSA has a redesigned boxer engine with shift cam technology and a revised powerful TFT display.
Heads Up: The TFT display has been designed for easy access to information and glanceability and configuration.
Clearly Ahead: The display technology works across a variety of lighting contexts.
Building on the Past: A fond view at the bivouac, the K1600GT’s configurable display is still solid but is starting to age. In its initial instantiation, the clocks always had legibility issues which were addressed to some degree with a refresh. Any such issues on the GS line have been clearly solved with the new the R1250GSA instrumentation.