Part-Time Scientists is a German-based team of scientists that is taking part in the Google Lunar XPRIZE contest to win the $30 million USD prize, which will allow them to build and send an unmanned rover to the moon. The Part-Time Scientists team has partnered up with Audi to tap into the luxury car brand's knowledge of lightweight construction, piloted driving, quattro drive and electric mobility.
Slated to launch sometime in 2017, Hypebeast writes, "The contest is Google’s effort to encourage engineers around the world to develop low cost robotic methods to explore space, and in order to win, Part-Time Scientists must successfully place a robot on the moon’s surface that explores at least 500 meters while transmitting high definition video and images back to earth."
Luxury Car Rovers
Audi Will Consult 'Part-Time Scientists' on an Unmanned Rover Project
Trend Themes
1. Unmanned Rovers - There's an opportunity for the development of unmanned rovers for space exploration, creating new possibilities for scientific research.
2. Lightweight Construction - The luxury car industry can explore lightweight construction techniques to enhance vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.
3. Electric Mobility - There is a growing market for electric mobility solutions, presenting an opportunity for luxury car brands to tap into this trend.
Industry Implications
1. Space Exploration - The space exploration industry can benefit from the development of unmanned rovers for more efficient and cost-effective exploration missions.
2. Automotive - Luxury car brands can capitalize on lightweight construction techniques to create high-performance vehicles with improved fuel efficiency.
3. Electric Vehicle - The electric vehicle industry can expand its offerings by partnering with luxury car brands to develop high-end electric mobility solutions.