The vehicle will be designed so that drivers can orient the car’s body both vertically and horizontally as they please, meaning the driver can even drive standing up. (image: UNIST)
ULSAN, June 2 (Korea Bizwire) – The Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) revealed its ‘Smart Urban Vehicle Project’ Thursday, part of efforts to develop an electric vehicle (EV) better suited for urban environments.
The project, in coordination with Power Plaza – an EV manufacturer, aims to create a smaller and a lighter vehicle for one to three persons, with designs that reflect the driver’s environment and driving experience.
For instance, the vehicle will be designed so that drivers can orient the car’s body both vertically and horizontally as they please, meaning the driver can even drive standing up.
UNIST plans to develop an operational prototype for the 2017 Seoul Motor Show.
The institute is currently participating in diverse research efforts that are required for EV development, such as new lightweight carbon-based materials, batteries and recharging technology, motor engine design, and car design.
“It is the first time that a university has collaborated with a business enterprise to manufacture an electric vehicle,” said Jung Moo-young, president of UNIST. “We’ll develop an innovative vehicle that can pioneer the industry.”
(image: UNIST)
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
