Abstract
The increasing need for individual mobility causes problems of high energy consumption, congestion and pollution within urban environments. One of the consequences arising from these problems is a considerable increase in CO2 emissions. It is necessary to find solutions that satisfy mobility needs while reducing negative environmental impacts. However, solutions that offer only mobility while complying with environmental requirements will not be accepted by the public, thus will not help to improve the situation. The goal of the CLEVER project is the development of a small vehicle for clean urban transport taking into account styling, comfort and safety aspects as well as running costs.
The tilting three-wheeled CLEVER, that is 3 meter long and 1 meter wide, offers room for two occupants sitting in a tandem arrangement. The aluminium space frame cabin together with the full lining protects the occupants against weather and offers a passenger compartment stiff enough to withstand most urban accident conditions. Together with an advanced restraint system the passive safety is comparable to that of small high end cars.
Due to the natural gas (CNG) engine, the CO2 equivalent gasoline energy consumption is less than 2,6 l/100 km. A special refuelling system allows the use of CLEVER in areas with no established natural gas refuelling infrastructure, by exchange of the CNG storage cylinders.
The implementation of CLEVER could cause considerable impact on urban transport; savings of up to 10 % of CO2 emissions are estimated.
Keywords:CLEVER, Alternative Vehicle Concept, Energy Consumption, Tilting Vehicle, Safety