Iron Idea and Conceptual Design · 2023
Ada Autonomous Vehicle
- A' Design Award 2023 Iron Winner in Idea and Conceptual Design
- Awarded April 15, 2023
- CLIENT: Teodora Todorova
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 62,032
- Verification code 7B32F1AB11 · Verify this award
About Ada Autonomous Vehicle
The topic of project is the design of hyper-technological elements in 21st century cars. The tasks in the research are to solve the possible problems in the shaping and offer hyper-technological solutions in its interior and exterior. Regarding the exterior of the car, a smooth line is sought, while creating aggression and stability on the road, is also deliberately smoother and wraps around all elements of the car's shell. It is made with concept auxetic material which is corresponding with the three modes of interior.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Hi-tech in this vehicle is the different material for the car shell as well as configurations in the interior. The research started with the gradual emergence of automobiles, and their classification by speed, drive, and engine in relation to their formation. Also research of consumer requirements as well as manufacturing requirements. The goal was to trace ways to form with parts of parametric design. Through clear lines to separate the most necessary communicative elements from the dashboard, as well as to pay attention to the other activities in the car, the main one of which is the comfort during travel.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- 4974 x 2100 x 1420 are basic measures of the car. The model is in scale of 1:5.
- Tags
- autonomous, transportation, vehicle, concept, car, ADA, mobility, future car
- Production Technology
- Using auxetic material, apart from the intended bending, the placement of the lines themselves on it allowed to further develop its possibilities by offering this structure to occupy different positions in the exterior, as an example of this is the transparency and density in its parts. On command from the compartment, the lines assume a position of partial transparency or full filling. This allows passengers to enjoy panoramic views or a space closed from the outside world while on the road.
- Design Challenge
- I designed the car myself under the guidance of my supervisor. It was extremely challenging because designing a car includes all aspects of design that need to be properly implemented in it, such as ergonomics, shaping, graphics, etc. Model was made in scale 1:5, mainly using 3d printing.
- Project Duration
- The project started in November 2021 and finished in January 2023. It will be exhibited in July 2023 in National Academy of Arts's Gallery, Sofia.
- Operation Flow
- ADA is an electric and autonomous car, and to help the accumulation of charge, the threads embedded in the ceiling have micro solar cells, providing the car with a larger capacity and a full range. When the batteries run out of charge and solar charge passes, the car enters energy-saving mode and must be oriented to a charging station. The charger is located in the rear of the vehicle.
- Research
- After doing the preliminary research and researching various trends, being introduced to this information brought the essence of the car which was created. The goal was a luxury vehicle, but at the same time innovative in terms of interior options. After looking at various ideas, prototypes and realized ones, decision was to be an average car, relative to its dimensions, which would comfortably allow a family to take a longer trip.
- Inspiration
- Ada is completely with glazed ceiling and doors, internally they are supported by a stable frame ensuring the safety of the passengers. However, these sides and the ceiling are made of transparent auxetic type material corresponding to the interior. The material itself is alive. It shrinks and expands for different functions in the car. The trunk and the front cover do not have hinges and dividing lines with the roof, but are one whole and when these parts are opened, the material itself shrinks.
- Patents
- Copyrights belong to Teodora Todorova, 2023
Colors of Ada Autonomous Vehicle
Grand Interview about Ada Autonomous Vehicle
The integration of auxetic materials in the Ada Autonomous Vehicle enhances functionality and user experience by improving safety, adaptability, and comfort. Their unique ability to expand under stress enhances energy absorption during collisions, increasing crash protection. Auxetic materials also provide adaptive cushioning in seats, reduce noise and vibrations for a smoother ride, and enable aerodynamic efficiency through shape optimization. Additionally, their durability and lightweight properties contribute to sustainable, long-lasting design, creating a safer, more comfortable, and eco-friendly driving experience.
The transparent, adaptive exterior of the Ada Autonomous Vehicle was inspired by the desire to balance privacy with connectivity to the environment, reflecting consumers' growing demand for personalization and immersive experiences. This design uses smart materials that adjust opacity, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views or privacy as needed, enhancing comfort and catering to modern preferences for adaptable, tech-driven solutions in mobility.
The development of Ada's self-charging system involved embedding ultra-thin, flexible micro solar cells into the vehicle's ceiling threads. These cells were designed to maximize surface area for energy capture while maintaining a sleek, unobtrusive design. Advanced materials and precision engineering ensure efficiency in converting sunlight into energy, enabling the vehicle to sustainably power auxiliary systems and reduce reliance on external charging infrastructure.
The shift to shrinking auxetic materials in place of traditional hinges was driven by the need for seamless, minimalist design and enhanced functionality. Technically, auxetic materials allow for smooth, silent movement with fewer mechanical components, reducing wear and maintenance. Aesthetically, this innovation enables sleek, continuous surfaces that redefine vehicle form, reflecting modern consumer preferences for futuristic, streamlined designs.
My research into historical automobiles informed Ada’s design by highlighting timeless elements like elegance and craftsmanship, while parametric design introduced advanced, adaptive geometries. This blend shaped decisions to honor classic automotive aesthetics while integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as dynamic materials and fluid forms, achieving a balance of tradition and innovation that resonates with modern functionality and style.
Ada Autonomous Vehicle offers three adaptive interior modes: **Explore Mode**, which maximizes visibility with panoramic views and interactive navigation for immersive travel; **Relax Mode**, featuring dimmed lighting, reclining seats, and a calming ambiance for rest; and **Office Mode**, equipped with adjustable work surfaces, connectivity, and focused lighting to create a productive environment. These modes enhance the autonomous driving experience by catering to diverse passenger needs, from exploration to relaxation and work.
I approached the design of Ada by seamlessly integrating advanced technologies, like adaptive materials and smart systems, into luxurious, user-centric interiors. Carefully selected materials, intuitive interfaces, and minimalist aesthetics ensured comfort and sophistication, while maintaining visual coherence through a unified design language that blends innovation with elegance.
Receiving the A' Design Award validates Ada's innovative approach, inspiring confidence in stakeholders and encouraging further exploration of groundbreaking concepts. This recognition enhances visibility, attracts collaboration opportunities, and sets a benchmark for integrating design excellence with advanced technology, driving future developments and real-world implementation of visionary mobility solutions.
My approach to Ada’s dashboard was guided by user insights prioritizing intuitive interaction, minimal distraction, and personalization. The design incorporates adaptive displays, haptic feedback, and voice controls, ensuring seamless communication and ergonomic ease. This user-centered focus enhances accessibility and strengthens the connection between passengers and vehicle systems.
Throughout Ada's development, unexpected challenges like integrating advanced materials with user comfort and ensuring seamless tech adaptation led to significant design refinements. Balancing cutting-edge features with intuitive usability required constant iteration, resulting in a vehicle that blends futuristic innovation with practical, user-centered design—ultimately shaping Ada into an award-winning concept.