Opel Icona all-electric concept vehicle for land and sea

Anupam JollySep 13 2010

Eco Factor: Zero-emission concept vehicle powered by electric motors.

With global warming increasing the levels of sea water, researchers over the globe have predicted a scenario when many coastal cities around the world will be submerged. This gruesome scenario has made industrial designers think of possible solutions that can contribute to the betterment of humanity. While some architects have been planning self-sufficient floating houses, others are working on vehicles that can be driven both on land and water. One such vehicle has been designed by Swedish designer Juan Pablo Bernal P.

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The designer has come up with an all-electric concept car, dubbed the Open Icona, that uses natural sources of energy for propulsion. Designed for the year 2050, the V-shaped car is able to commute on both water and land, opening possibilities to look for alternative locations to reside and experiences to explore. The environmentally friendly and energy-efficient vehicle provides a dynamic and practical way to teach children about relevant issues by living experiences that reinforce the family bond.

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The concept vehicle features four electric motors that are included in each of the four wheels. The all-terrain vehicle can be driven in two modes – water mode and land mode. When in the land mode, the vehicle is driven using a normal electric drive. However, in water mode, a sail is retracted from the car’s storage area and the wheel arms rotate inboard to reduce drag.