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Tracking Notable Moments in Mobility.
We live in an era of unprecedented innovation and transformation in the mobility sector. Movement highlights key developments in the field, drawing on designbivouac’s three decades of expertise in mobility.
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Tesla Updates and F-150 Lightning Debut
Tesla is moving towards vision-only systems and introducing camera-based driver monitoring. Ford debuts the electric F-150 Lightning.
MOVEMENT: TRACKING NOTABLE MOVEMENTS IN MOBILITY
Tesla is moving towards vision-only systems and introducing camera-based driver monitoring. Ford debuts the electric F-150 Lightning.
Originally published: June 30, 2021
Tesla Drops Radar, Introducing Tesla Vision
Camera-Based Driving System
As noted in Notaslaapp and widely covered in the media in May, Tesla has officially removed radar from their cars coming off the production line in the US. All new Model 3 and Model Y vehicles produced in May 2021 or later will no longer come with radar. Instead, the cars will rely entirely on Tesla's vision system for Autopilot and safety features.
This move follows what Elon Musk has been stating about the company’s confidence in camera-based vision systems for some time. Tesla is confident that applying the same visual way of navigating roadways that humans do will ultimately allow their system to evolve faster and accommodate daily driving situations. However, it remains to be proven whether camera-based procedures alone will be sufficient, especially in more challenging weather conditions where vision may be compromised.
Since Tesla is removing radar and not committing to costly LIDAR systems, which Musk has long called “A fool’s errand,” the company will save significantly on sensor costs. Development efforts will also be streamlined as the integration of radar data places a high demand on both software processing power.
Over time, it will be interesting to see whether Tesla’s vision-based system can continue to evolve and adapt. Tesla is optimistic about its ability to continually improve its Autopilot software by integrating aggregated data from its deployed fleet. But perhaps continuous investment in high-resolution road mapping combined with more extensive sensor fusion will be the most effective approach.
GM Super Cruise approved roadway map as of May 2021
While GM’s current map of approved roadways for Super Cruise use resembles a cell phone service coverage map from the late 1990s, the company will undoubtedly continue to fill in key routes as more vehicles with the technology come online. Perhaps a combination of both may ultimately be needed.
Ford Debuts
Electric F-150 Lightning Pickup Truck
On May 19, 2021, in what has to be one of the most significant developments in electric vehicle history, Ford Motor Company introduced the F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck. The launch event video is posted below. During the presentation, Bill Ford rightfully stated that this is a generational moment for the company, and in many respects, the same can be said for the overall mobility industry.
Congratulations to Lynda Zhang and her entire team at Ford, who appear to have designed a superb vehicle in around three years. Key features of the F-150 Lightning include a zero-to-60 time of approximately 4.5 seconds, over 600 ft-lbs of torque, 400 liters of space in the forward frunk, accommodating up to 400 kg of payload, and four electrical outlets.
CEO Jim Farley also noted that the vehicle can charge a home during power outages for up to three days. Ford has been applying human-centered design to its latest models, such as the F-150 Lightning and Bronco, to incorporate user-centric features.
Ford appears to be making continual progress regarding its Sync offering as well. The F-150 Lightning is available with an optional 15-inch display, and Ford has mentioned that over-the-air updates, or Ford Power-Ups, will allow for continual vehicle improvements. A hands-free driving system, Ford calls Blue Cruise, will also be available.
Pricing starts at $39,975, excluding tax incentives. This price is remarkable, considering the pricing of other electric trucks set to enter the market next year. For example, the GMC HUMMER EV will likely come in over the $100,000 mark for the launch edition,
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Tesla Finally Introduces
Camera-Based Driver Monitoring System
Tesla finally introduced a camera-based driver monitoring system. The move comes after several examples of Tesla owners acting with reckless disregard for safety by defeating the current system. Drivers have been photographed sleeping while their cars continue along the freeway. One Tesla owner in the San Francisco Bay Area even posted photos on social media of himself alone in his Tesla riding along a highway while seated in the back of the vehicle.
GM’s Super Cruise system has had a camera-based drive monitoring system from its inception. Combined with hyper-accurate LIDAR mapping of hundreds of thousands of miles of crucial roadways, the system enables drivers to enjoy a hands-free experience for extended periods of travel on approved roads. In head-to-head comparisons, the press, including Motor Trend, has often given the edge to the GM system, which is rolling out across more vehicles soon, including the Cadillac Lyric. Perhaps this move by Tesla will close the gap regarding driver comfort and perceived safety.
Fueling and Charging Stations
of The Future are Here today
In May, Bjørn Nyland provided an excellent overview of one of Circle K’s latest EV charging stations in Norway. Warm and inviting details include accommodations for on-the-go road trip dining, a variety of places to sit in comfort upstairs to refresh and recharge yourself and your phones, and clean restrooms and wifi.
300 kW fast chargers are featured as primary charging stations. The station is equipped with solar panels on its roof. Petrol pumps are also included for legacy vehicles.
It will be fascinating to see how all the real estate devoted to pumping traditional fuels is repurposed in the coming decade or two.
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Image credits: Tesla, GM, Ford, Bjorn Nyland
Canoo and Axopar
New EV concepts from the likes of Canoo are afloat. Surreal sounds and the end of the I.C.E (Internal Combustion Engine) age.
MOVEMENT: TRACKING NOTABLE MOVEMENTS IN MOBILITY
March saw Canoo float another entry in the E.V. pickup space. The bivouac looks closer at Axopar’s 22-foot Spyder, and Lucid Motors introduces Surreal Sound, featuring Dolby Atmos System technology.
Originally published: March 30, 2021
Canoo Debuts User-Focused Electric Pickup,
Pivots to Target Fleet Sales
This month, Canoo debuted a second vehicle based on its modular electric skateboard platform. This time, the company revealed its take on the pickup truck format. While many commented on the distinctive profile of the vehicle, some covering the release referred to vehicles from the past that share a similar silhouette, including the venerable Mercedes-Benz Unimog and the Volkswagen flatbed transporter.
That said, Canoo’s design included several thoughtful features. A wide range of interior storage and power provisions are included, making it easy to work with power tools, store weekend gear, or tailgate at your favorite team’s location. In witnessing recent tailgate wars between Detroit’s big three (GM’s Multipro Tailgate, Ram’s Multifunction Split Tailgate, and Ford’s Multifunction entry), Canoo’s slide-out bed extender deserves special mention.
It remains to be seen whether Canoo can deliver on its vision overall. Canoo’s range of around 200 miles might limit the vehicle’s appeal in specific segments. For example, many who escape the city for a weekend will put that amount of mileage in on a one-way trip to the trailhead. Many in the EV segment agree that electric vehicles currently in development should aim for a minimum range of 300 miles or more. This is especially true if they target recreational use, such as the Rivian pickup, Tesla’s Cybertruck, or GM’s Hummer EV, where charging provisions in rural areas may be scarce.
It will also be interesting to see how the company transitions from creating compelling concept vehicles and visuals to actual vehicle production. The last few years have proven that great design is not enough. Deep funding, long-term planning, extensive industry knowledge, and expertise in the battery supply chain or manufacturing are needed today to produce vehicles. Companies like NIO, Faraday Future, and Nikola have learned hard lessons in that regard. Even Tesla experienced “production hell” as it initially struggled to produce its successful Model 3 vehicle in significant volumes.
On a late-breaking related note, Canoo CEO Tony Aquila has announced that the partnership with Hyundai appears to have fallen through. Aquila said Canoo will now focus on building and selling its vehicles to commercial fleets and small businesses. This may be a tough pivot for the company to pull off, given that many of the notable attributes of the vehicles debuted thus far have been focused on individual tradespeople or outdoor enthusiasts.
Overall, the company’s customizable platform play is compelling. Let’s hope Canoo hasn’t missed the boat when it comes to actually getting their vehicles to market.
Axopar Premiers
22 Foot Spyder
In December 2020, Axopar premiered one of the most significant boats in its lineup, and reviews are now appearing online. The Axopar 22 Spyder is an entry-level offering to introduce a new generation to boating and the Axopar brand. The company has worked hard to infuse the new Spyder entry with all the things Axopar boats are known for.
The stepped keel, which introduces air turbidity into the water below the boat to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency, is evident. Due to its wide rear and self-draining architecture, the boat exhibits the kind of inherent stability Axopar boats are known for. Characteristic flat handling is also on offer despite the smaller size of this vessel. Deep insets on the exterior side surfaces of the Spyder add an updated and dynamic feel to the boat, making it appear more agile in the water. Railings surround the inner walkways but are now tucked just below the sight lines, adding an even cleaner look to this model.
For 2021, Axopar has partnered with Jobe, a well-known watercraft accessory company in Europe, to create a special edition of the 22-foot boat. The Axopar x Jobe edition is rendered in the signature Jobe teal color; its layout is tuned for water sports, especially when fitted with the maximum storage layout. Axopar is no stranger to partnering with complementary brands, as evidenced by their collaboration with Brabus on larger boats in their lineup.
Several available layouts allow customization of the Axopar 22 to meet various customer needs. In addition to the aforementioned active Jobe water sports edition, a version with a forward-facing rear bench seat is available. A rear surround seating configuration is also available. Underfloor storage is available on all models in the rear and front areas of the boat. Additionally, a massive storage area is available below the control area. An optional manual or electric toilet and wash basin can be fitted if a freshwater supply is chosen. A rear-hand wand shower is also included in that package.
With this entry, Axopar aims to reach those new to boating through this more accessible form factor. Suitable for towing, it is sure to have broad appeal to those keen to hit the water in something that charts new directions in innovation within the boating industry through thoughtful and technologically innovative design.
The Axopar 22 lists a starting price of 25,900 euros. It can carry seven passengers, has a fuel capacity of 60 gallons, and weighs 2,650 lbs.
Check out the Axopar 22 Spyer launch event
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More Evidence of
The End of the I.C.E Age
The 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has left a significant impression on both vehicle enthusiasts and the environment. The vehicle with the 001 VIN sold at a recent Barrett-Jackson auction for $410,000. Perhaps this is evidence that internal combustion engine enthusiasts and vehicle investors feel we have reached peak fossil fuel-based horsepower.
Another more obvious sign of the I.C.E. age drawing to a close is that many major OEMs have dramatically shifted their focus toward developing next-generation EVs, rather than investing in future traditional petrol engines.
Perhaps those fans of the environment can take heart in the fact that a GMC Hummer EV pickup with VIN 001 sold for $2.5 million. That and the fact that the Ram TRX and Hummer EV seem to be headed for a similar fate as that of the TREX from the end of the Mesozoic Era.
Jeep and Electrify America
Charge Up the Trailhead
As another indicator of the momentum that vehicle electrification is gaining, as part of the 2021 Easter Jeep Safari, Jeep announced the new Jeep 4xe Charging Network. It will be rolled out at the trailhead locations or in the vicinity of them. Early locations identified for deployment over the coming year include Jeep Badge of Honor trails. In partnership with Electrify America, the company announced that the stations will be directly connected to the power grid or utilize solar power to generate electricity and feature Level 2 (240-volt) chargers.
While this is an incremental step towards extending the reach of electric vehicles, it is welcomed by many. With Level 2 charging, the 17-kilowatt-hour battery pack in the Jeep Wrangler 4xe can be fully recharged in about two hours, delivering up to 21 miles of electric range. Recharge times will be shorter for Wrangler 4xe owners looking to top off the battery pack before heading out on the trail.
Lucid Motors Introduces
Surreal Sound Dolby Atmos System
Lucid Motors announced it will feature Dolby’s Atmos immersive sound technology in its upcoming Lucid Air. The impressive technology empowers creatives to work with sound in three dimensions, giving compositions more acoustic directionality.
Lucid also plans to utilize the directional aspects to convey vehicle status updates more intuitively. Should a seat belt warning relate to the rear right passenger seat, for example, an audible alert can be emitted from that area of the vehicle. While some vehicle manufacturers have been striving to achieve this with previous systems, the Dolby Atmos system offers more advanced capabilities to move sound forward, rearward, and vertically throughout the cabin in less intrusive ways.
This announcement reinforces how Lucid distinguishes its offerings from other next-generation electric vehicles that will launch within the year by including high-end technology focused on the user experience.
Take a closer look at Dolby ATMOS technology or experience their demonstration.
Image credits: Canoo, Axopar, GM, Stellantis
Hummer EV: Recharging an Icon
GM’s latest push for zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion future includes an iconic and ironic entry. GMC recently announced that the GMW Hummer EV will be available in Fall 2021.
GM’s ambitious vision for a future of zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion includes a bold—and somewhat ironic—addition to its lineup. In a striking blend of heritage and innovation, GMC announced that the all-electric Hummer EV would be available starting Fall 2021. Once known as a symbol of excess and fuel consumption, the Hummer has been reimagined as a cutting-edge electric supertruck, capable of delivering both off-road prowess and zero-emission performance.
This reintroduction of the Hummer underscores GM’s strategy to electrify even its most iconic and rugged vehicles, demonstrating that sustainability and performance can coexist. With features like CrabWalk mode, an adaptive air suspension, and up to 1,000 horsepower, the Hummer EV isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a leap into the future of mobility, wrapped in unmistakable style and power.
When the GMC Hummer EV goes on sale in the Fall of 2021, it will be a bold step in reshaping the Hummer brand. The concept vehicle is impressive, touting an estimated all-electric range of over 350 miles per charge. Production vehicles will charge to a range of nearly 100 miles in 10 minutes using high-capacity charging stations. An impressive suspension supports the latest electric incarnation of the Hummer. The Hummer EV’s “extract mode” can raise the vehicle 6 inches to overcome obstacles. Like the Jeep Wrangler and the soon-to-be-launched Ford Bronco, the Hummer EV will offer an open-air roof capability. Given that it is an EV, it achieves this with more utility, thanks to a generous storage area located up front, where an internal combustion engine once was. This large “frunk” conveniently accommodates the glass roof panels.
The HummerEv’s Extract Mode should raises the bar for super trucks.
A water fording capability of 32” is impressive for an electric vehicle.
A “Watts to Freedom” mode lowers the vehicle's suspension, conditions the batteries, and accelerates the Hummer EV to 60 mph in approximately 3 seconds. That is remarkable for a vehicle of this size and weight, which is partially how the Hummer EV earns its “Super Truck” status. Other innovative features include a “crab mode” that allows the vehicle to travel diagonally. This is a helpful capability to have in some off-road situations. The latter feature is made possible through the platform’s four-wheel steering capability, which should also help with any turning radius challenges in parking lots. GM’s “Ultravision” placement of cameras underneath the vehicle and extensive underbody protection also aid in off-roading activity. It will be interesting to see how Rivian and Tesla counter with their offerings.
Using “Crab Mode” the HummerEV can avoid obstacles in new ways.
Four wheel steering should significantly aid the vehicle’s turning radius.
Negotiating tough trails should be as easy as having a spotter when using Ultravision’s included underbody mounted cameras.
The concept vehicle is well executed visually. The lines are solid; overall, the truck looks substantial and anchored. The overall aesthetic could be described as “attainably futuristic,” or perhaps what one would expect from a few cycles of truck evolution. Tesla’s Cybertruck, by comparison, is radical and polarizing but very unexpected. Rivian’s entry appears somewhat conservative in comparison to the Hummer EV. Overall, GM appears to have done its homework here, positioning the Hummer EV between these two, adding entries to the electric truck market with progressive styling.
GMW HummerEV display showing a technical aesthetic and Super Cruise functionality.
Innovation continues inside the vehicle. The display visuals are more advanced than the exterior. They are reminiscent of what one would expect in Bladerunner vehicles; perhaps this is partly due to their partnership with Epic Games and the use of the Unreal Engine to render graphics. The visuals are more dynamic and video game-like than many human-machine interfaces in vehicles today. Just how close GM will come to delivering on the concept vehicle interfaces remains to be seen. They have previously farmed some of this work with varied results.
Then again, there is evidence that perhaps GM has realized just how essential interfaces are regarding the relationship with a vehicle. For example, in addition to the Hummer EV interface work, significant interface progress is evident in other divisions, including Cadillac. The concept displayed in their Cadillac Lyric is leaps ahead of what the company is shipping today. Let’s hope that this is more than just concept work. Similarly, if the interior quality of the Hummer EV is as solid as that of the new Corvette C8, it should be an impressive truck. The Corvette C8 interface is arguably superior to that found in the latest Ferrari Roma. All these qualities will undoubtedly be needed, given that the Hummer EV Edition 1 will run around $112,595.
Cadillac Lyriq is set to launch in late 2022 as a 2023 model
Cadillac Lyriq concept vehicle interface is a dramatic step ahead in terms of instrumentation graphics for General Motors.
GM’s new Ultium battery system will scale to accommodate a range of vehicle architectures. In the case of the Hummer EV, the battery pack will consist of two stacks of battery compartments. Each battery compartment holds thin packets of battery chemistry, thus eliminating the weight of traditional cell battery enclosures.
Overall, it is great to see companies embracing the benefits of electric mobility and committing to a more sustainable future. In addition to new vehicles launching over the next few years that will utilize the Ultium platform, GM plans to adopt more sustainable ground distribution. Their BrightDrop freight management offering and the electric delivery fleet are already being prototyped with FedEx. Along with their new corporate identity, GM seems to be on a new mission, pursuing sustainable mobility at a faster pace. Depending on how their Ultium platform is applied across their fleet, and if Hummer EV pricing can help subsidize innovations for other vehicles, it could be a future that is not only great for trucks but also for the planet.
Images | GM