Carel van Helsdingen, Chief Executive Officer 2getthere
When starting out the design process we set out to create an iconic look for the GRT vehicle.
Sneak peek automotive
As a preview to 2getthere’s 3rd generation Group Rapid Transit vehicle, the updated design for the vehicle is released today. The design of the 3rd generation is realized in close cooperation with Zagato Milano, the renowned Italian automotive design company. This is a logical extension to the cooperation for the design of the Personal Rapid Transit vehicle operational at Masdar City (Abu Dhabi).
2getthere CEO Carel van Helsdingen: ‘When starting out the design process we set out to create an iconic look for the GRT vehicle – much like we did when designing the PRT vehicle. We wanted to break away from the appearance of a mini-bus and at the same time create that ‘family-sense’ with the PRT design.’ The latter is also considered important for those applications where both vehicle types would operate alongside each other.
public transportation
The new design satisfies the design requirements for public transportation and the request for the design to be appreciated by the public without being anonymous. It should not only look modern but also be lasting without requiring a face lift to remain contemporary. The design statement should transmit a positive and futuristic vision.
Based on this Zagato, the Italian Automotive and Design company, opted for a minimalistic design approach with simple but distinctive DLO (day light opening) for both interior and exterior.
It provides a feeling of lower center of gravity to the vehicle and creates a dynamic balance in the proportion between cabin area and bumper/fender area. All the glass (polycarbonate), with exception of the doors, has three-dimensional curvature giving it an unique elegance and extremely modern image. Interior is very luminous and airy thanks for this big DLO.
The height of the vehicle allows for the air-conditioning to be integrated into the roof, while leaving ample room to accommodate standing passengers comfortably. The interior configuration is flexible, featuring either 8 or 12 seats while allowing up to 8 to 12 standees. As such the capacity per vehicle is increased to 24 passengers, a number achieved regularly during peak hours at the Rivium application. Automated doors featuring a wide opening to accommodate wheelchairs can be integrated at both sides of the vehicle.
The GRT will be fully electrical, typically equipped with a LiFePO4 battery. The vehicles are completely driverless and automatically guided by 2getthere’s proven magnet based navigation system. The vehicles are capable of achieving 40 km/hr. Key safety feature is the obstacle detection system, which uses the latest technologies to ensure the safety of the passengers, vehicle and its surroundings.
Zagato
Zagato COO Ing. Giorgio Gamberini commented: ‘Zagato brings a long tradition of innovative design not only for top range sports cars but also for urban mobility. In 2008 we successfully worked on automated public transportation with 2getthere for the design of the iconic PRT vehicle for Masdar City. This collaboration has now evolved to a bigger size vehicle: the GRT. At the same we believe that the Zagato attitude towards innovations that dates 95 years (1919 – 2015) will surely continue its association with 2getthere in the future with new urban mobility solutions.’
The new GRT vehicle has been offered for applications in the Far East, Middle East and Europe, drawing excellent reviews from potential customers.