Future of Rickhsaw in Thailand
Reimagining the future of Tuk-tuks, the iconic mode of transportation in Thailand, against the backdrop of rising concerns about excessive carbon emissions. These emissions significantly contribute to Thailand’s poor air quality, highlighting the need for a balance between preserving cultural heritage and addressing environmental challenges.
Problem Discovery
Tuk-tuks
An obstacle detection and alerting device to enhance kayaker safety and reduce the risk of collisions with hidden objects or debris as it may lead severe, devastating accidents.
Air pollution in bangkok, thailand
Rocket Media Lab analyzed the data from most polluted month in 2022 to determine that combustion engines in cars, trucks, tuk-tuks, and other vehicles accounted for 72% of the hazardous fine particulates known as PM2.5 during April, followed by factories (17%) and field burning (5%).
“As of 2019, there were almost 20,000 tuk-tuks in Thailand powered by internal combustion engines.”
- The Guardian
Opportunity
How Might We
modernize Thailand's iconic tuk-tuks
for drivers and visitors to bangkok
so that they provide a sustainable, flood-reliant, and culturally authentic journey
Design & Development
Ideation & rapid prototyping
Numerous concepts were brainstormed to explore diverse applications of personal mobility, ultimately leading to the selection of an amphibious mobility device as the focus.
Refined concept & development
Refined Final Sketch
Full-scale drawing on the wall to visualize the proportion
Constructed a full-scale model to evaluate spatial interaction with the form and test ergonomics, providing essential insights before transitioning to CAD modeling.
CAD Modeling
Developed detailed models for each component of the product while refining the overall design language.
Details
Sealed electric power unit ensures product can operate smoothly when submerged
Roto-molded seat ensures product is affordable and stylish
Elevated platform ensures driver’s safety and comfort during ride
