Conceptum Works: Neue KlasseLuxury Multi-purpose Vehicle
Passengers constantly seek greater comfort and luxury while traveling from point A to point B. However, during the course of travel, social hierarchy issues exist within the cabin, particularly in the MPV (Multi-purpose Vehicle) segment. The standard 3-row cabin creates the so-called First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class within the car itself, which is unhealthy for families to traverse in.
This project, Neue Klasse by designer Ying Hern Pow, aims to address this issue and redefine the concept of a car's cabin. Inspired by the idea that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination, Pow set out to create a meaningful and luxurious cabin experience. Instead of focusing on supercars or sports cars, Pow chose to work on an MPV, a vehicle typically bought out of necessity rather than desire.
The Neue Klasse breaks away from the conventional MPV design by infusing Asian ideology of social interaction with a groundbreaking interior layout. It establishes an entirely new segment that addresses the social hierarchy issue with elegant solutions.
One of the unique features of the Neue Klasse is its foldable seats, which allow for an extra-luxury seating layout for four people, reminiscent of the seats found in luxury vehicles like the Rolls Royce Phantom or Maybach 62. This design innovation provides a more comfortable and inclusive experience for all passengers.
In terms of technology, the Neue Klasse is a Range-extender Electric Vehicle (REEV) powered by a Lithium-sulphur battery. The use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics (CFRP) for the body structure ensures weight savings, making way for heavy components such as batteries and electric motors. The Range Extender engine, powered by sustainable biofuel like palm oil, provides ample power to recharge the electric drivetrain, offering an extended driving range.
The Neue Klasse boasts a proportionate stance with a height of less than 1.6 meters and generous length and width of 5.14 and 2 meters, respectively. Its extra-extended wheelbase of 3.9 meters allows for a spacious and comfortable interior.
The project, which started in late August 2011 and finished in May 2012, was exhibited in both Singapore and London. It received the Silver A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design category in 2013, recognizing its outstanding expertise, innovation, and remarkable level of excellence.
The Neue Klasse challenges the traditional notion of an MPV by creating a luxurious and socially inclusive cabin experience. With its unique features and innovative design, it sets a new standard for the future of multi-purpose vehicles.
Project Details and Credits
Project Designers: Ying Hern Pow
Image Credits: Ying Hern Pow
Project Team Members: Ying Hern Pow
Project Name: Conceptum Works: Neue Klasse
Project Client: Ying Hern Pow