The SmartCart Showcases the Best in 3D-Printing and Autonomous Tech
Rahul Kalvapalle — July 14, 2015 — Autos
References: ns.umich.edu & gizmag
The SmartCart is an autonomous 3D-printed car, developed by Local Motors, that is being tested at the University of Michigan as part of a year-long trial. One of three vehicles being put together for the university's study, the car will be used to research and learn more about low-speed autonomous features.
The SmartCart is powered by a golf-cart motor but features a bespoke fiber-reinforced body. It will be used to develop an Uber-style mobile interface that will allow students to summon a car for transit across campus.
While a university campus is a significantly smaller and more controlled environment than the chaotic real world, this project still offers a whole bunch of interesting basic and complex applications that could change transportation as we know it.
The SmartCart is powered by a golf-cart motor but features a bespoke fiber-reinforced body. It will be used to develop an Uber-style mobile interface that will allow students to summon a car for transit across campus.
While a university campus is a significantly smaller and more controlled environment than the chaotic real world, this project still offers a whole bunch of interesting basic and complex applications that could change transportation as we know it.
Trend Themes
1. Autonomous 3d-printed Vehicles - 3D-printing and autonomous technology are coming together to create inexpensive and customizable vehicles.
2. Campus Transportation - The SmartCart is being used to develop campus transportation systems of the future with an Uber-style interface.
3. Low-speed Autonomous Features - Research and development of low-speed autonomous features will lead the way in making transportation safer and more efficient.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The automotive industry could make use of 3D-printing and autonomous technology to create vehicles faster and with better customization options.
2. Education - Universities and schools could benefit from autonomous transportation systems to facilitate student mobility across campuses.
3. City Transport - The development of low-speed autonomous features could disrupt the transportation industry, leading to safer and more efficient city transport systems.
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