A new concept that integrates advanced powertrain, steering and suspensions technologies could give the next generation of commercial and urban transport vehicles limitless 360-degree steering.
The Protean360 module, developed by Protean Electric specifically for CV applications, will allow for exceptional versatility on busy urban streets, and parking in tight spaces with absolute kerb-side precision.
The system’s compact packaging would also allow the development of UTV’s with entirely flat interior floors for improved access.
Once stationary, the pneumatic ride height control of Protean360+ will enable the vehicle to ‘kneel’, dropping the vehicle entry-point to kerb level. This will afford stepless and virtually gapless ingress and egress for heavy or cumbersome loads or for passengers with impaired mobility.
KY Chan, CEO of Protean Electric, said, “Transport-as-a-Service urban mobility is gaining momentum, and with it the need for a new class of urban transport vehicles.
“Whether shared or private, for passengers or goods deliveries, human-driven or autonomous, these new vehicles will require new technologies to be fit for purpose.
“The Protean360+ corner module was borne from our team’s innovative thinking about how to meet the requirements for these next-generation urban vehicles.”