Customizable multi-purpose bus

An urban bus with a flexible interior

Public transportation has always been a major issue in modern society. Many solutions have been developed around the world to circumvent the issue but every project had its flaws, either by direct lack of quality, or by being too complex and preventing a economically stable transportation network to be established. SWIFT is an attempt to create a model of urban bus capable of streamlining maintenance processes and cutting operational costs while providing good quality transportation for everyone.

An urban bus with a customizable interior, SWIFT has a system of lateral structures that allow for easy reconfiguration of its internal components. This creates a very flexible platform that can be utilized in a wide scale in urban centers to fill different kinds of routes that would otherwise require different kinds of buses, greatly reducing operational and maintenance costs. Due to its ease of maintenance, repair times can be cut drastically and as the passenger demands change around the transportation network, the fleet can be easily reconfigured to adapt to the new demand.

The basic design of SWIFT was developed based on low-floor bus platforms and materials for its internal components currently available, aiming at easy introduction to production lines. Sketching and aesthetic studies were conducted to determine shapes, materials, and visuals for the vehicle. Ergonomic and human behavior studies on public transportation were also conducted to improve the quality of life for passengers.

The laterals of the internal part of the vehicle have rails for easy removal and placement of the seating modules developed for the product. Each module was conceived with optimized ergonomics and low maintenance costs, allowing for easier maintenance and quick repurposing of the vehicle for varied roles inside the transportation network of its city.

SWIFT is a concept that combines passenger comfort, safety, and profitability in an adaptable, versatile solution for public transportation. It focuses on streamlining the bus system of urban centers in a unique platform that combines flexibility in passenger capacity, safety, comfort, and transportation efficiency. With a single bus platform able to fill various roles in a transportation network, from local transit to big routes, the vehicle can be easily and quickly repurposed, reducing operational costs without sacrificing the quality of service.

This design was awarded Iron in the A' Car and Land Based Motor Vehicles Design Award in 2014. The Iron A' Design Award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, they provide fulfillment and positive feelings, contributing to a better world.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Leonardo Santos e Barros
Image Credits: Leonardo Santos e Barros
Project Team Members: Leonardo Santos e Barros
Project Name: Swift
Project Client: Leonardo Santos e Barros


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