Optimal combination electric vehicle for eco-friendly urban transportation

Abstract

This patent presents an innovative electric vehicle that combines the best features of motorcycles and cars, addressing urban mobility challenges, safety, and environmental sustainability. Constructed from lightweight materials such as aluminum, steel, carbon fiber and fiberglass, the vehicle is designed to match the length and height of a car while maintaining a narrow width for easy maneuverability. Its unique four-wheel configuration—with two wheels in the front and two in the back—ensures stability and agility. Electric motors are integrated into the wheels, and the centrally mounted battery optimizes weight distribution for enhanced performance. This vehicle mitigates traffic congestion and pollution while providing the comfort, safety, and versatility of a traditional car, making it suitable for various weather conditions. With its potential for mass production and alignment with sustainable transportation goals, this invention offers a timely solution for modern urban commuting needs such as reducing single-passenger vehicles.

Description

Optimal Combination Electric Vehicle for Eco-Friendly Urban Transportation

[0001] As urban centers grapple with escalating traffic congestion and environmental challenges, the need for innovative transportation solutions has never been more critical. The present invention offers a groundbreaking vehicle that harmoniously merges the desirable characteristics of motorcycles and cars.

[0002] This vehicle is designed with a lightweight yet sturdy composite of advanced materials, providing the safety and comfort associated with cars while delivering the maneuverability typically found in motorcycles. Its compact design, featuring four wheels situated closely together, allows for effortless navigation through crowded streets. Equipped with electric motors and an efficient battery system, this vehicle addresses pressing issues such as pollution and single-occupancy transportation, offering a sustainable and practical alternative for modern urban commuting.

[0003] By bridging the gap between two-wheeled and four-wheeled transport, this inventive vehicle stands poised to revolutionize the way we navigate increasingly crowded urban environments.

[0004] B60K 17 / 34 – B62M 7 / 00 – B60L 50 / 00

[0005] CN102085888

[0006] Motor-driven four-wheeler

[0007] The invention discloses a motor-driven four-wheeler developed simply and economically on the basis of the structure of the traditional motor-driven electro-tricycle. In the invention, the motor-driven electro-tricycle can be made into products of various types and specifications, such as the motor-driven four-wheeler, a four-wheel scooter for the old, a four-wheel cargo truck, a four-wheel motorcycle, a four-wheel hybrid vehicle and the like. Compared with the traditional motor-driven electro-tricycle and motor tricycle, the stability and the safety of vehicles are improved. Compared with the traditional electric automobile, the motor-driven four-wheeler has the advantages of simple structure, low cost and economy and applicability.

[0008] Our claimed vehicle focuses on merging the best features of motorcycles and cars by utilizing a unique four-wheel configuration with a narrow footprint and electric motors integrated within the wheels, enhancing maneuverability, comfort, and environmental friendliness. In contrast, the CN102085888 patent presents a motor-driven four-wheeler that builds upon the traditional electro-tricycle design, emphasizing simplicity, low cost, and versatility for various applications, such as scooters and cargo transport. While both vehicles aim to improve stability and safety relative to traditional models, our patent prioritizes innovative design and electric propulsion for urban commuting, whereas the above-mentioned one emphasizes economic adaptability and straightforward structure without necessarily integrating advanced technological features.

[0009] United States Patent Application 20110061961

[0010] FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE ELECTRIC VEHICLES

[0011] A four-wheel drive electric vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a chassis and a power system. The power system comprises batteries, an electric motor, a DC-DC converter and an electric motor controller which are electrically connected, and the chassis comprises a frame, a transmission / transfer case, a drive shaft, a front axle assembly as well as a rear axle assembly. The transmission / transfer case, the front axle assembly and the rear axle assembly are mounted on the frame. The transmission / transfer case is connected with the rear axle assembly directly and with the front axle assembly via the drive shaft. Under the control of the electric motor controller, the electric motor is driven to rotate by the batteries, whereby a power is transferred from the motor to the transmission / transfer case, and a part of the power is transferred to the rear axle assembly with the other part transferred to the front axle assembly via the drive shaft.

[0012] Our claimed vehicle innovatively merges the attributes of motorcycles and cars, featuring a compact design with four wheels, electric motors integrated into the wheel hubs, and a lightweight composite structure, thereby enhancing maneuverability and safety while addressing urban traffic challenges. In contrast, the United States Patent Application 20110061961 outlines a more traditional four-wheel drive electric vehicle characterized by its conventional chassis and powertrain setup, which includes a transmission / transfer case and drive shafts for power distribution between the front and rear axles. While your patent focuses on a unique, narrow, and lightweight design that promotes eco-friendliness and versatility in urban settings, the four-wheel drive electric vehicle is engineered for robust performance and structure, highlighting a divergence in design philosophy aimed at improving urban mobility versus enhancing off-road capability.

[0013] CN102848887

[0014] Totally-enclosed passenger motor tricycle, four-wheeled motorcycle and electrombile rear doors serving as luggage racks

[0015] The invention relates to totally-enclosed passenger motor tricycle, four-wheeled motorcycle and electrombile rear doors serving as luggage racks and particularly relates to four types of vehicles. The first type is a totally-enclosed passenger motor tricycle, the second type is a totally-enclosed passenger four-wheeled motorcycle, the third type is a totally-enclosed passenger electrical tricycle, and the forth type is a totally-enclosed passenger electrical quadricycle, and the rear doors of the four types of the vehicles are related. When the rear doors of the four types of vehicles are opened, the rear doors all can be used as luggage racks. The technical scheme includes that the rear doors of the four types of the vehicles are connected with vehicle bodies at tail ends of the vehicles movably through shafts. The rear doors are characterized in that all the shafts are arranged at the lower ends of the rear doors.

[0016] Both our patent and CN102848887 propose innovative vehicle designs that address the growing demands for efficiency and practicality in urban transportation. A general similarity between the two is the intention to create vehicles that enhance safety and usability, particularly for passengers, by offering features not typically found in standard motorcycles. The main difference lies in our patent's unique emphasis on combining the characteristics of a motorcycle and a car into a compact, four-wheeled design with electric motors housed within the wheels, while CN102848887 focuses on a series of tricycles and quadricycles with a totally enclosed structure and rear doors that serve as luggage racks, emphasizing functionality and storage rather than the blend of motorcycle and car features.

[0017] US20230077070

[0018] Electric vehicle

[0019] Disclosed is an electric vehicle having four wheels and a body having a cockpit defined therein, the cockpit containing a single seat and being closable to form an enclosure around the seat. The body has a front bumper having a width that is greater than a front track width of the vehicle. A width of the vehicle is between 1200 mm and 1600 mm, and a height of a centre of mass of the vehicle above a ground surface on which the vehicle is disposed is less than a third of the width of the vehicle. The electric vehicle may be suited for use in urban environments, and may provide benefits in terms of improved safety and maneuverability.

[0020] Both our patent and US20230077070 describe electric vehicles aimed at enhancing urban mobility, emphasizing safety and maneuverability as key advantages over traditional vehicles. A general similarity is the focus on electric power systems to reduce pollution and improve efficiency in congested traffic. The primary difference, however, lies in our vehicle's design, which incorporates a unique four-wheel layout with compact dimensions and internal motors for improved agility, while US20230077070 features a single-seat cockpit enclosed design with a distinct body profile that prioritizes width and stability, which may limit maneuverability compared to our more versatile approach.

[0021] WO2019060966

[0022] A MOTOR VEHICLE

[0023] A tiltable motor vehicle having 3 or more wheels and at least one bridge having opposite first and second ends where first and second wheel hub assemblies are disposed. First and second wheels are mounted on the first and second wheel hub assemblies. First and second suspension guides are also associated with the first and second wheel hub assemblies, each being attached to a respective end of the at least one bridge such that the suspension guide is rotatable about at least a tilt axis relative to the at least one bridge. Each wheel hub assembly being movable along or across the respective suspension guide such that the wheels are movable relative to the at least one bridge during suspension action. Movement of the wheels and the wheel hub assemblies associated with suspension rebound and compression action and rotation of the bridges relative to the body associated with tilting action are both substantially independent of movement of the steering element.

[0024] Both our patent and WO2019060966 focus on innovative vehicle designs that incorporate multiple wheels to enhance stability and performance. A key similarity is the use of multiple wheels to improve safety and maneuverability in urban environments. The significant difference, however, lies in the structural engineering approach: our vehicle has a compact design with four wheels and features electric motors integrated within the wheels for enhanced agility, while WO2019060966 emphasizes a tiltable design with independent suspension systems that allow for wheel movement and vehicle tilting, which introduces complexity and focuses on dynamic handling rather than the blend of motorcycle and car characteristics in a compact form.

[0025] In response to the growing challenges of urban traffic congestion and environmental concerns, the present invention introduces an innovative vehicle that uniquely integrates the most advantageous features of both motorcycles and cars. Constructed from a lightweight yet durable combination of aluminum steel, carbon fiber, and fiberglass, this vehicle maintains the length and height characteristics of a typical car while boasting a narrower width that enhances maneuverability.

[0026] The design incorporates four wheels—two at the front and two at the back—arranged in close proximity to each other, further optimizing spacing for urban navigation. With electric motors ingeniously housed within the wheels and a battery mounted on the chassis, this vehicle not only provides the inherent safety and comfort associated with automobiles but also offers the agility of two-wheeled transportation.

[0027] By mitigating the drawbacks of traditional motorcycles, which are limited by weather conditions and safety concerns, and addressing the environmental impact of conventional cars, this groundbreaking design presents a sustainable and efficient alternative for modern urban mobility, reducing the number of single-passenger vehicles, ultimately reducing traffic congestion, pollution, and the dependence on internal combustion engines.

[0028] The patent addresses several technical problems and existing challenges associated with both motorcycles and traditional cars, particularly in the context of urban traffic and environmental concerns. One significant issue is traffic congestion, as cities continue to struggle with increasing vehicle numbers. While motorcycles are agile enough to navigate tight spaces, they lack the safety features found in cars and are not as suitable for all-weather use. In contrast, traditional cars contribute to traffic problems and environmental pollution due to their larger size and reliance on internal combustion engines. The proposed vehicle is designed to strike a balance between the efficiency and maneuverability of a motorcycle and the safety and comfort of a car, providing a practical solution for urban commuting.

[0029] In addition to addressing safety and maneuverability, the patent focuses on environmental impact by introducing an entirely electric vehicle. As air quality deteriorates in urban areas due to emissions from traditionally powered vehicles, the shift to electric motors helps mitigate this issue. The choice of lightweight materials like aluminum steel, carbon fiber, and fiberglass not only enhances performance and battery efficiency but also contributes to a lower overall carbon footprint. By eliminating internal combustion engines, this design plays a crucial role in improving air quality, aligning with the growing need for sustainable transportation solutions in congested cities.

[0030] Furthermore, the vehicle’s unique wheel configuration—two wheels in the front and two in the back—not only enhances stability and handling compared to traditional motorcycles but also preserves the nimbleness essential for urban navigation. With the motors integrated into the wheels and the battery mounted centrally on the chassis, the vehicle offers improved weight distribution, further enhancing maneuverability and driving dynamics. This innovative design makes parking easier and allows for better navigation through crowded areas. Additionally, it effectively addresses the problem of single-passenger vehicles. In summary, this electric vehicle combines the best features of motorcycles and cars, addressing contemporary challenges such as safety, maneuverability, and environmental sustainability in urban transportation.Solution of Problem

[0031] This invention presents a revolutionary electric vehicle that harmoniously blends the advantageous features of motorcycles and cars, addressing pressing challenges of urban mobility, safety, and environmental sustainability. The vehicle stands out due to its innovative design, which incorporates a closed cabin structure that provides weather protection and improved aerodynamics, thereby enhancing occupant safety compared to motorcycles. Its lightweight body is made from advanced materials such as aluminum, steel, polycarbonate, carbon fiber, and fiberglass, resulting in a robust yet lightweight structure that enhances agility while contributing to better efficiency. Its dimensions are carefully calibrated to match the length and height of a standard car while being narrower than traditional vehicles, allowing for easy maneuverability in congested urban environments.

[0032] One of the novel aspects of this invention is its unique wheel configuration, which consists of two wheels at the front and two at the back, with a minimal distance between them. This configuration not only provides excellent stability and balance but also enables agile handling comparable to that of a motorcycle. The integration of electric motors within the wheels, which feature active cooling mechanisms to enhance efficiency and extend operational life, represents a significant departure from conventional designs, further enhancing the vehicle's performance and efficiency. This innovative approach allows for better space utilization and reduces overall weight, contributing to improved acceleration and handling dynamics. Furthermore, the central placement of the battery on the chassis optimizes weight distribution, which enhances stability and responsiveness during operation.

[0033] The vehicle's electric propulsion system is another standout feature, directly addressing the growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation solutions. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines, this electric system significantly reduces harmful emissions and noise pollution, making it a sustainable choice for city commuting. As urban areas grapple with deteriorating air quality and the adverse effects of fossil fuel consumption, this vehicle provides a timely and necessary alternative that aligns with global sustainability goals. It addresses the increasing concern regarding single-passenger vehicles and offers a viable solution for urban mobility. Moreover, its electric powertrain not only reduces the carbon footprint but also encourages the use of renewable energy sources for charging, further enhancing its ecological benefits.

[0034] Additionally, the vehicle addresses safety concerns often associated with motorcycles, making it suitable for various weather conditions. By incorporating a protective chassis structure, impact-resistant polycarbonate windows, and a reinforced frame, this vehicle ensures a safer riding experience without compromising the excitement and agility of two-wheeled transportation. The vehicle also features a digital control system equipped with an onboard processor for real-time power distribution monitoring, regenerative braking, and traction control, further enhancing safety. This dual focus on comfort and safety helps alleviate consumer reservations about motorcycle use, particularly for those who prioritize protection in adverse conditions but still seek the convenience and efficiency of a smaller vehicle.

[0035] In terms of mass production potential, the combination of advanced materials and a straightforward modular assembly framework makes this vehicle highly manufacturable. The use of lightweight composites not only reduces production costs but also streamlines the assembly process, allowing for scalable manufacturing with multiple configurations such as single-seater or cargo variants to meet diverse urban applications. Additionally, an aerodynamic underbody and an active airflow management system improve energy efficiency and reduce drag. With growing urban populations and the corresponding increase in traffic congestion and pollution, this unique vehicle meets a critical need in the transportation ecosystem. By providing an efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly mode of travel that combines the best features of both motorcycles and cars, this invention has the potential to capture significant market share and contribute positively to urban mobility solutions.Advantage Effects of the Invention

[0036] • Enhanced safety features

[0037] • Greater stability compared to motorcycles

[0038] • Compact design for easier maneuverability

[0039] • Efficient navigation in congested spaces

[0040] • Lightweight materials reducing overall weight

[0041] • Lower environmental impact due to electric motors

[0042] • Comfortable, adjustable, ergonomic seating similar to cars

[0043] • Weather protection compared to traditional motorcycles

[0044] • Durable and adaptable to any climate

[0045] • Noise reduction technology

[0046] • Reduced emissions compared to conventional vehicles

[0047] • Reduced traffic and ensuring smoother flow

[0048] • Easier parking in crowded areas

[0049] • Cost-effective and timesaving for commuters

[0050] • Solving the problem regarding the number of single-passenger vehicles

[0051] Shows a general view of the designed vehicle.

[0052] Displays another view of the designed vehicle.

[0053] Depicts a general view of the claimed vehicle from the side.

[0054] Illustrates the comprising parts of the designed vehicle.

[0055] Shows a general schematic view of the claimed vehicle. This presented design is one of 7 different embodiments that all share the main qualities of the vehicle but feature variations in aesthetics.

[0056] Displays a different view of the claimed vehicle.

[0057] Depicts a general schematic of the claimed vehicle as viewed from the side angle.

[0058] Illustrates the comprising parts and components of the designed vehicle and their overall shapes and number.Examples

[0059] This innovative vehicle is ideally suited for densely populated urban environments where traffic congestion and parking scarcity pose significant challenges. For instance, a commuter living in a bustling city could use this vehicle to navigate through crowded streets with ease, utilizing its compact width to slip between vehicles and access narrower lanes. When commuting to work, the driver enjoys the comfort of a car's enclosed cabin while benefiting from the high maneuverability of a motorcycle. In inclement weather, they remain protected from the elements, unlike traditional motorcycles, while reducing their carbon footprint with the electric powertrain. At the end of the workday, the vehicle can be easily parked in tight spaces, maximizing urban parking efficiency. Overall, this vehicle offers a practical and eco-friendly solution for daily commuting, effectively addressing modern urban transportation needs and solving the single-passenger vehicles issue.

[0060] The prototype of this innovative electric vehicle would feature a compact, aerodynamic design, measuring 1 / 10 scale of the original model. Key components include:

[0061] Chassis: Lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber construction for optimal strength-to-weight ratio.

[0062] Wheels: Four-wheel configuration with two front and two rear wheels, each integrated with high-torque electric motors.

[0063] Battery: A centrally mounted lithium or solid-state battery pack.

[0064] Electric Motors: for air brakes, efficiency system, control system and for opening doors.

[0065] Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension systems for improved stability and ride comfort.

[0066] Safety Features: Equipped with advanced safety mechanisms, including anti-collision sensors, emergency braking systems and reinforced carbon-fiber shells.

[0067] Interior: Enclosed cabin with seating for two, touchscreen display for controls and navigation, and connectivity options like Bluetooth.

[0068] It is important to note the control system, the suspension systems and the motors are all embedded in the wheels and in the space between the wheels and the main body of the vehicle.

[0069] The design's applicability spans multiple industries due to its unique combination of compactness, electric mobility, and eco-friendliness, which are increasingly relevant in urbanized settings. Automotive manufacturers can leverage the innovative design to attract environmentally conscious consumers and meet tightening emissions regulations. Urban transportation services can optimize routes and enhance rider experiences by integrating these vehicles into their existing fleets. Furthermore, logistics and delivery companies would benefit from the vehicle’s nimble maneuverability, significantly improving last-mile delivery efficiency in congested areas. Public transportation authorities can explore integration into urban transit systems, promoting sustainable commuting options. Additionally, smart city initiatives and technology firms focused on urban planning and transportation solutions can capitalize on the increased demand for eco-friendly transportation, while sustainable energy companies involved in renewable energy infrastructure and charging stations would find synergies in supporting the vehicle's deployment. Overall, this invention presents a versatile solution that aligns with broader trends in sustainability and smart urban planning, offering substantial economic and environmental advantages across various sectors.

Claims

A combined electric vehicle is designed for eco-friendly and efficient urban transportation which combines the optimal features of a car and a motorcycle.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle is characterized by a body constructed from a composite of aluminum steel, carbon fiber, polycarbonate and fiberglass for enhanced strength and lightweight performance.According to claim 1, the vehicle's dimensions, consisting of a similar length and height to a standard car, but with a reduced width comparable to that of an engine bay, optimizes maneuverability in urban environments.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle’s wheel configuration features two front wheels and two rear wheels, with a minimized distance between the wheels to improve stability and handling while reducing the vehicle's overall footprint.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle features an integrated motor system wherein each wheel contains an electric motor, providing efficient propulsion and enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness and agility.According to claim 1, the integrated electric motors feature active cooling mechanisms to enhance efficiency and extend their operational life.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle has a chassis-mounted battery design that centralizes weight distribution and contributes to a lower center of gravity, improving overall vehicle stability and handling.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle has a dual benefit design that addresses modern traffic challenges by offering motorcycle-like maneuverability while ensuring the comfort and safety of a car, enabling use in various weather conditions without compromising rider safety.According to claim 1, the vehicle features a closed cabin structure that provides weather protection and improved aerodynamics, enhancing occupant safety compared to motorcycles.According to claim 1, the vehicle includes a digital control system equipped with an onboard processor for real-time power distribution monitoring, regenerative braking, and traction control.According to claim 1, the vehicle incorporates a smart connectivity system that features GPS navigation, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, and remote diagnostics to improve urban mobility.According to claim 1, the vehicle’s regenerative braking system captures kinetic energy, increasing overall energy efficiency by at least 20%.According to claim 1, the vehicle includes impact-resistant polycarbonate windows and a reinforced frame for enhanced occupant safety.According to claim 1, the vehicle's construction and design significantly reduce environmental impact by utilizing electric motors, thus minimizing air pollution and decreasing reliance on single-passenger vehicles, offering an eco-friendly alternative for urban transportation.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle has a unique design framework that harmonizes safety, comfort, and maneuverability, making it suitable for daily urban commuting while contributing to reduced traffic congestion.According to claim 1, the claimed vehicle has several embodiments, one of which is presented in this patent. All embodiments share the advantages and main components but vary in design and aesthetics.According to claim 1, the vehicle incorporates a modular assembly framework, allowing for scalable manufacturing and ease of maintenance, with multiple configurations such as single-seater or cargo variants.

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