Nicolas explanations:
Utilizing a new energy model, the vehicle uses the electricity to stimulate a central water tank, splitting the water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen gets stored in special reserve tanks, while the oxygen gets expelled into the air as exhaust. With this model, the vehicle functions like a plant, only needing the sun and water to create its own fuel. The sleek, mono-volume design allows for optimal interior space and utility. Special design features also include layered body panels, unique headlight/side mirror units, and offset seating to allow elbow room for all occupants.

Since the principle material used to construct the exterior functions by re-directing light to the edges, I wanted to accentuate this feature in the design. To do so, I designed the roof panel to act like a canopy, suspended over the roof pillars mimicking a shade or visor. The rear lights themselves are packed into the edge of the “glass sleeve” composing the exterior, to seem as if the brake lights are being emitted from the glass edges.

Using this technology, there were key issues that had to be solved in the revision stage. While the solar panels use highly saturated dyes, this color cannot be used on the entire exterior because it would disorient the driver. To solve this, I broke up the material into three different shades (clear/smoked/colored) and strategically placed them around the vehicle in order to maximize driver visibility

Technology aside, it was important that I attempt to break the stigma against small cars in North America. To do this, I used long lines that stretch across the form, visually elongating the vehicle and providing an athletic stance. In order to maximize the use of such a small package, I used a mono-volume approach to open-up the interior space as much as possible. Another important feature to small vehicles is character… so besides a traditional “happy face”, I designed the headlights and side mirrors to be integrated into one unit that extends out from the body like eyes.

Designer : Nicolas Stone

STRUCTURELAB S1 was developed cooperatively by architects and membrane-engineers, aimed at the creation of an unique and extraordinary design object. The STRUCTURELAB S1 sunshade system is the amazing synthesis of elegance and functionality – the elegance of a lightweight solar sail and the sustainable functionality of a mobile umbrella system.

Designer : StructureLab

The canopies (which look more like giant duck feet) have solar cells on top. The large handles on the base ensures that the canopy can be rotated by teachers or pupils to get the most efficient orientation from the sun throughout the day. The LED displays, communicate the energy generated and if the device needs to be turned around.

Thus this government funded initiative, which in partnership with VEIL (i.e. Victorian Eco-Innovation Lab), is a possibility for future to integrate solar-energy harvesting technologies into a form which is pragmatic (i.e. providing shade & energy), education and evocative.

Designer : Buro North via IGreenSpot via Dezeen