Hyena: A Motorcycle for Extreme Environments

Designed by Xiangzhi Zhao

The concept for Hyena arose from a critical examination of existing motorcycles designed for extreme environments. Xiangzhi Zhao recognized the limitations of current designs and sought to create a new concept that would better suit the demands of these challenging applications.

One of the standout features of Hyena is its use of magnesium alloy in the outer shell. This material offers a low casting defect rate and is lightweight, making it ideal for practical application. Magnesium alloy is also known as a "green material" due to its environmental friendliness and potential for pollution-free and full recovery. With the transportation industry's increasing emphasis on reducing weight, vehicles like Hyena are at the forefront of this development trend.

Hyena's unique properties extend beyond its materials. The motorcycle incorporates the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) through the creation of Hyena SNS (social networking services). This innovative system enables more efficient information transfer between operators during operations. By utilizing three distinct warning tones, Hyena facilitates efficient communication and information transfer in high-risk situations. This method proves faster and clearer than verbal communication or text prompts on digital screens. Additionally, the warning tones transmit location information and content to the command headquarters, allowing for quick dispatch and coordination.

The design of Hyena also demonstrates a keen attention to detail. For example, the parallelogram shell made of magnesium alloy not only aligns with the motorcycle's Brutalist design style but also serves practical purposes such as heat dissipation and preventing signal blockage from the magnesium alloy shell.

The Hyena project began in Beijing in 2019 and underwent testing at the Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disaster, MOE, BNU in 2020. The project was completed in early 2021, resulting in a motorcycle that pushes the boundaries of design and functionality in extreme environments.

Hyena has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design category in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate innovation, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial requirements. Hyena's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to a better world.

With patented technology and intellectual property rights held by Xiangzhi Zhao, Hyena represents a significant advancement in motorcycle design for extreme environments. Its combination of advanced materials, IoT integration, and efficient communication systems make it a valuable asset in disaster response, ecological protection, and field research.