Volkswagen MUTE (MUT. E) is the project that won first place in the Michelin Design Challenge 2020. A frontier vision for versatile mobility in the smart cities of the remote future.
Yes, remote. Although the project is ideally located in 2035. Although it is believed (I believe with good reason) that the new generations of people between 20 and 30 years will have a more aware vision of the impact of pollution on human health. Because Volkswagen MUTE, this vehicle that aims to provide alternative and sustainable mobility, seems really born of science fiction, unlike what was conceived, for example, for the ID 3.
How MUTE was born
The challenge was to recreate a mobility network for the smart city where transport could also be reused as urban furniture.
Inspired by the octopus approach, its locomotion and survival mechanisms, Volkswagen MUT. And it offers solutions to reduce traffic congestion in the future.
By analyzing the arms and qualities of the octopuses, the author of the project Dayvid Almeida he grasped his flexibility and suction power that allows him to grab objects and move in the water. These main characteristics were the main core of Volkswagen MUTE.
What is the usage model?
The user can simply order Volkswagen MUT. And via smartphone or smart devices. Upon order, this vehicle starts and leaves its area to meet the user. The flexible membrane of MUT. And it allows it to unwind, turning into a wheel. As soon as he approaches the user, he expands the modular seat, ready to welcome him.
The project also includes other variations: different modules can be combined to meet user needs. Even the fusion of multiple modules can create fully customized urban architecture in different locations across the city.
In short, a future of self-propelled and automatic vehicles, which when not taking you around remain comfortably lying down to make benches or shelters in city squares.
