Marco Naccarella's inspiration for the Cerberus came from the neighborhoods surrounding his design studio. The design process was resource-intensive, requiring careful investigation of engine systems and theories on vehicular design. The challenge was to create a homogeneous style and form while using readily available resources.
What sets the Cerberus apart is its three-fold power system. It can be powered by a 2.8 Kw electric battery, a 2.3kw 50cc 4 stroke engine, and a set of foot pedals. This moped can reach 60kph on both electric power and petrol, making it perfect for bike paths, city centers, and suburban roads. Its reliability allows every component to be interchangeable with aftermarket parts, adding a personal touch to the vehicle.
The Cerberus is made from a variety of materials including steel, chromed steel, aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy, brass, plastic, ABS, and rubber. Its technical specifications include a steel frame with quadrilater system forks, a fuel capacity of 7L, an integrated oil tank capacity of 1.5L, and a 4 stroke 50cc engine with a supercharger. The electric engine is 2800W, 72V, 11.6Ah with a max torque of 120 Nm.
Operating the Cerberus is straightforward. Pushing a button on the left side of the handlebar and a switch on the right triggers the electrical motor. For petrol, one needs to cease twisting the accelerator, engage the clutch, and pedal to trigger the motor. A button press on the right handlebar interrupts the connection between the engine and the system, thus ceasing engine power. This allows the flow between power sources in different environments.
The Cerberus project began in Montecatini Terme in February 2020 and was completed roughly a year later. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the project continued, with constant analysis of the market impact. The design process involved extensive research, including individual analysis, sketches of ideas through CAD software, and probing texts, articles, and interviews with experts.
One of the biggest challenges in designing the Cerberus was the ergonomics of the design and fitting various technologies and gear systems into an aesthetically pleasing design. The design includes multiple sophisticated technologies, but fitting them together in synergy was difficult. For example, applying a set of handlebars that could adjust in length and distance from the user was critical to the design's ergonomics, yet had to be reliable and practical at the same time.
The Cerberus is not just a design marvel but also a winner of the prestigious Silver A' Vehicle, Mobility and Transportation Design Award in 2021. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.
With two patents pending, the Cerberus is a testament to Marco Naccarella's innovative design skills and his ability to revolutionize urban mobility. The Cerberus is not just a moped; it's a new way to travel.
Project Designers: Marco Naccarella
Image Credits: Marco Naccarella.
Project Team Members: Marco Naccarella
Project Name: Cerberus
Project Client: Marco Naccarella