Inspired by urban mobility issues in the world’s big cities and by citizens’ growing interest in more environmentally friendly transport options, industrial designers Charles Godbout and Luc Plante have reinterpreted the scooter to exploit its potential as an eco-friendly, efficient and fun way of getting around a city. Their research, done as part of their participation in Alcoa’s “Aluminum as a driver of mobility” contest, led to the design of KOMBI, a non-motorized, modular aluminium scooter created specifically for short trips in the city, either alone or with the family.
KOMBI won the Grand Prize for 2015, the third year of the contest. According to the jury, “KOMBI demonstrated a thorough understanding of the issues related to the theme. KOMBI breathes new life into an original, eco-friendly mode of transport, while presenting obvious commercial potential and optimally exploiting the benefits associated with aluminum.”
THREE MODES OF USE
The unique idea behind the KOMBI urban scooter is to use one product in several different ways, maximizing the return on the purchase, thus creating the product’s added value. Just like the principles of cameras with interchangeable, bayonet-type lenses or multi-head tools, KOMBI’s various modules can be attached to the scooter’s deck section using a “slide-in,” quick-release connector. KOMBI is a multifunctional system providing several modes of transport. It can be used as a solo, cargo or stroller scooter. Its various parts can also be combined to make a bike trailer or a regular wheeled stroller. To be built entirely of recyclable and corrosion-resistant aluminum, KOMBI is ultralight, easy to maneuver and designed to stand up to intensive use in the city.
SEEKING PARTNERS
The designers are seeking industrial partners in Quebec (or elsewhere) to develop and market the product.
For more info, visit www.topodesign.ca