The i-Scoob concept is a diseno-art.com design proposal
for a luxury two-person snowmobile. The vehicle's name
is a play on the words 'ice cube'.
The i-Scoob is designed for multi-role use. It can either
be configured for day-to-day transport for well-heeled
Eskimo's, or anyone living in frozen locations where a
car or truck may struggle to travel. Or as a way to quickly
transport people and equipment over the arctic tundra
during scientific exploration.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain of the i-Scoob consists of a hybrid internal
combustion engine/electric motor setup. This not only
offers an extended range, but the vehicle can be run in
a purely electric-mode over shorter distances to reduce
the impact on the delicate arctic environment.
The batteries can be charged in three different ways;
by the engine acting as a generator, by plugging the vehicle
into a mains electricity socket, or by using the fold-out
solar panels which are kept in storage boxes either side
of the vehicle. And while there may not be much sun in
the areas the i-Scoob would operate, every little helps.
The solar panel recharging system could be a lifesaver
for users who run out of fuel in the middle of nowhere.
Even if it takes a couple days to generate enough power
to finish the journey it's better than being permanently
stuck.
Design
The exterior design of the i-Scoob was developed to be
functional as well as rugged and stylish. Where possible
all elements of the design would be as simple as could
be allowing the vehicle to be repaired or maintained relatively
easily.
At the rear of a vehicle is a secure heavy-duty cargo
rack for transporting supplies and equipment. Items can
also be stored in the airtight side pods located just
forward of the passenger compartment. For much larger
items the i-Scoob can be used to pull a trailer sled.
Vacant spaces in the bodywork are filled with foam and
the passenger cell is fully watertight. This means that
should the vehicle fall through ice into frigid water
it will remain afloat. The foam also helps insulate the
drivetrain components, and occupants from the harsh environment.
Interior
The interior of the i-Scoob has comfortably enough room
for two persons in full snow gear. Entry is via the forward
tilting canopy. All the materials found inside are designed
to be easily cleaned and waterproof. Control of the i-Scoob
is done through a central joystick which means the vehicle
can be driven from either seat. This joystick provides
control of both acceleration/braking and steering. The
central dash of the i-Scoob is a multifunction LCD unit
which offers everything from drivetrain performance information
and navigation, to settings for the radio and climate
control.
The almost completely glazed cockpit of the i-Soob is
designed to take advantage of the greenhouse effect and
trap as much heat as possible inside the vehicle, while
also offering superior vision for the occupants.
Vision
The i-Scoob is a pure concept. There's no intention of
producing the vehicle, it's merely an idea for a new form
of transport in extremely cold and desolate locations.
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