Design Continental’s next vision for the future of the intermediate vehicle
3 transportation designer & 1 UX
4 months
CONTEXT
In a world where ecology is a growing concern and city centers are changing to make way for soft mobility, intermediate vehicles are becoming increasingly popular. As the AMI shows, there's a real need for them, especially among young people.
Design Continental’s vision for the Intermediate vehicles of the future : combine safety, sustainability and driving experience.
RESEARCH
What is intermediate vehicle ?
THE BIKE
Bicycles are an active means of transport, have no bodywork and can be used by everyone.
LESS THAN 450 KG
Vehicles in this category travel at a maximum speed of 45 km/h and do not require a driver's licence to operate.
LESS THAN 600 KG
These vehicles require a driver's license to operate, generally have more options and can go up to 80 km/h to be used on more roads.
1 HOUR
Average use a day
40 min
Difference between car and public transport
84%
Commute alone
+58%
Use car for less than 1 km
90%
of the car time is parked
CAR USE IN NUMBERS
What will the city of 2030 look like, and in what context will our vehicle evolve?
ONLY
Small vehicle
BANNED CAR
From city center
NEW
Public transport line
+ 130
Eco districts
CITY IN 2030
Given the context, what does the user think and, above all, what role does the car play in their life ? What is their view on intermediate vehicles ?
USER RESEARCH
NOT READY
LIKE THE CAR STATUT
Proudness to have a nice car
such as a SUV
DON’T LOOK SAFE
Too small
LACK OF SPACE
Not axed for family or workers
PERSONA
NEED SPACE
VERSATILITY
NOT LOSE TIME
KIDS SAFETY
LOOK RESISTANT
SANDRINE
SANDRINE
SANDRINE
Regarding private individuals, what can be changed for professionals ? How can intermediate vehicles compete with commercial vehicles ?
NEED SPACE
ONE SEATER
STORAGE
WORKSHOP
EFFICIENT
RANGE
VINCENT
VINCENT
VINCENT
Introducing VOLT!
The idea behind volt is to create a modular vehicle, in particular with its fully modular rear capsule.
There are different preloaded configurations: professional, private, container and without anything that can be changed to CONTI LOCK available in Best Drive garages.
The idea is to have a seamless experience via the app.
In addition to customizing the main components of the capsule, the aim is also to offer a wide range of smaller, personalized touches through a smart modular grid system. This flexible structure allows users to easily add various functional accessories such as a cup holder, lamp shelves, or extra storage compartments. While subtle, these additions significantly enhance the overall user experience by making each capsule more practical, comfortable, and tailored to individual needs.
To save time and stay productive in traffic or while waiting, the passenger seat has been transformed into a mobile workspace. Two panels, discreetly stored in the doors, unfold to create a stable surface. This built-in modularity brings flexibility and functionality directly into the vehicle, supporting a more efficient, on-the-go lifestyle.
The experience is designed to be seamless and continuous, extending beyond the physical capsule through a dedicated application that accompanies the user every step of the way. From reserving a personalized configuration to customizing the capsule using the modular grid system, the app acts as a central hub for interaction and control.
More importantly, it fosters a strong sense of community by enabling users to connect, share, and borrow accessories. This feature highlights the shift toward collective use and shared value, which lies at the heart of what community means in 2030.
For the creation of the user interface system, the goal was clear: to echo the car itself. The colors reflect those of the interior and bodywork, weaving a seamless link between digital and physical. This harmony strengthens Continental’s identity and makes every interaction instantly recognizable.
The user flow was crafted with the same precision. Flexible yet intuitive, it allows users to configure their vehicle, personalize it to their taste, and share it effortlessly. In navigation mode, every element is refined for clarity and focus, ensuring a smooth, reliable, and distraction-free experience. The result is not only functional stability but also a sense of trust and comfort that embodies the brand’s premium spirit.
