TUM CREATE launches electric taxi prototype at Tokyo Motor Show

TUM CREATE has unveiled its electric taxi prototype, codenamed EVA, at the 43^rd Tokyo Motor Show. EVA serves as a platform to showcase the results of the innovations and developments at TUM CREATE, a joint research programme by Technische Universitat Munchen (TUM) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). This project milestone marks the first time that a Singapore-based organisation is participating and presenting a vehicle in the 59-year history of Asia's most important automotive tradeshow.

Transportation companies around the world typically re-purpose passenger cars as taxis. However, the challenge of current electric vehicles is the extremely limited range and long recharge times (up to eight hours), making them impractical as taxis.

TUM CREATE aims to address these issues, as well as the unique challenges posed by the heat and humidity in tropical megacities, through its research and development. Unlike temperate climates, passenger cooling and battery pack heat management are issues specific to tropical and equatorial regions.

"While taxis account for less than three percent of the vehicle population in Singapore, they contribute to 15 percent of the total distance travelled. The average two-shift taxi covers over 500km a day," explained Principal Investigator Dr. Daniel Gleyzes.

A key highlight is the car's super-fast charging system. It is designed to be recharged in just 15 minutes to cover a realistic range of 200km (based on Singapore driving patterns), which will be an industry benchmark. With its fast recharge times, EVA can achieve long
ranges with short downtimes - as charging can be performed during the driver's rest breaks.

Apart from tackling the energy storage and battery charging challenges, EVA will also feature innovations that are particular to tropical climates. TUM CREATE's researchers have developed an individualised, overhead air-conditioning system with which they target to reduce the cabin cooling power.

Ergonomics studies have shown that localised cooling has a direct impact on the overall thermal comfort. The overhead outlets and the seat ventilation target these areas to create better thermal comfort without the need to cool down the whole cabin.

Unoccupied zones can also be switched off to further reduce energy consumption. Interestingly, this system also reduces the exposure of air-borne particles or germs from being blown from one seat to another zone in the vehicle.

Besides the cabin cooling system, EVA's innovative seats provide maximum comfort for both the driver and passengers driving in humid tropical climate. The ergonomically designed seats are equipped with a purpose-built system where suction draws away moisture and heat from the surfaces of the seat.

The climate controls, in-car entertainment, booking and digital payment systems are also linked via the infotainment system that allows passengers to control air-conditioning and audio settings wirelessly from their personal mobile devices. Similarly, the central control panel and driver's instrument cluster are also connected seamlessly to the on-board systems, and are able to provide driving statistics and power-saving tips to the driver.