The German Aerospace Center presented U-shifts, modular electric vehicles to which modules for passenger or freight transport can be “hooked”.
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U-shift: the modular electric vehicles
The U-shift prototype is remotely controlled by specialized operators but, in the future, researchers want to implement the self-guided technology. For the moment, a seven-seater passenger module (with a large door and ramp to facilitate entry) and a pod container capable of carrying four euro pallets have been presented. These prototypes will be tested on the track in Germany and will provide feedback for further development of the project. The U-shifts should be on the road by 2024. According to the researchers’ plans, the final version will be fully self-driven and driverless. In addition, it will reach a maximum speed of 60 km/h and will be able to drive 24 hours a day. An ambitious goal, but one that – assure from the DLR – can be achieved. It is no coincidence that the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Construction financed the u-Shit project with an investment of 12 million euros.
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