Photographs: Courtesy, Rinspeed.
Swiss automobile and concept powerhouse Rinspeed is creating not just a car but a entire mobility concept. The highly likeable two-seater is aptly named 'UC?', which stands for 'Urban Commuter'.
...Drive this car into a train!
Image: Rinspeed UC beside a train.Photographs: Courtesy, Rinspeed.
This battery-powered electric vehicle (EV) can be loaded into a train - allowing long-distance commuters to take their car with them.
The UC? is 102 inches long and 64 inches wide, and built atop a very short 71-inch wheelbase. It uses lithium-ion battery pack, which powers an electric motor capable of a scant 40 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque.
The UC? is meant for city use, so top speed is only 75 mph, according to Rinspeed. In place of a steering wheel, there's a "force-feedback joystick" and drive-by-wire Space Drive.
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Drive this car into a train!
Image: Rinspeed UC.Photographs: Courtesy, Rinspeed.
Rinspeed envisions a transverse loading system and special rail cars, allowing "numerous UC vehicles" to be loaded simultaneously and rapidly.
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Drive this car into a train!
Image: Rinspeed UC.Photographs: Courtesy, Rinspeed.
The company aims to integrate individual car ownership and public transportation. Train passages can be booked and reserved online directly from the vehicle.
Harman International provides the permanent 3G internet connection. The VoIP2Car technology provides IP telephone service, video chat, video conferences, e-mail and many more features in the "UC?".
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Drive this car into a train!
Image: Rinspeed UC.Photographs: Courtesy, Rinspeed.
During the train trip, drivers can visit the train restaurants, use any of the other train amenities or spend time in the cars.
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Drive this car into a train!
Image: Rinspeed UC.Photographs: Courtesy, Rinspeed.
He is already in discussions with international railroad companies about his new mobility concept.
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