Nano Bug
MICRO URBAN MOBILITY PROJECT
Area of opportunity:
EMOTION
75% of Gen. Z & A are more likely to buy products with strong emotional appeal. (Hagerty)
FRIENDLY
62% of first-time car buyers preferred vehicle designs that were “inviting” or “less aggressive.” (Audiworld)
MICRO
68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas, compact cars provide efficient and sustainable options. (Pew Research)
Concept Statement:
A micro-urban companion mobile that grows with young Gen Z & A drivers, making commutes safer and more memorable.
Direction A
LADYBUG-INSPIRED SMART CAR
My first concept heavily inspired by a ladybug. Compact, beautiful and versatile. This concept contrasts some of newer concept cars that play on fierce, hard edged forms. I wanted to bring back the idea of making a car that looks and feels alive, like a creature. Having the car become a companion that evolves and grows with the young driver, like a pet—making drives from work or classes back home for young drivers more memorable, convenient and safe.
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Direction B
SHELL-INSPIRED SMART CAR
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My second concept takes inspiration from shells and armoured creatures. This concept focuses on safety, while still resonating the "alive-like" feel. Companions like Blastoise from Pokemon, an armadillo or even Iron Man's armour are key inspirations. I wanted to bring back the idea of making a car that looks and feels alive, like a creature.
concept poster
DESIGN VALIDATION PROPOSAL
A part of my process was design validation, with peers and professors. After a thorough review and discussion, I along with several stakeholders agreed to push direction A.
nANO BUG
MOBILE URBAN COMPANION
Nano Bug's Purpose:
Instead of designing a traditional car, Nano Bug redefines the experience by making the vehicle a personal companion, integrating AI, personality, and emotional interaction. This makes it more than just transportation—it’s an extension of the user’s lifestyle.
Exterior Design
Working around direction A, I dove deeper into the possible human interaction and CMF of Nano Bug.
Materials of the Future 01
About 3 million tons of auto shredder residue, or leftover car parts, ends up in landfills each year.
Thus I explored exterior materials like Self-Healing Biocomposite/plastic parts, which would reduce the need for manual maintenance and repairs, leading to more sustainable infrastructure by minimizing labor, costs, and environmental impact.
Materials of the Future 02
Another possible option I considered is Chitin composite body, as it has proven to be lighter than metal and traditional plastics, improving efficiency and range (especially of EVs).
Unlike traditional plastics, chitin composites can decompose naturally under the right conditions.
Chitin Composite Breakdwon
Digital Integration & AI Companionship
76% of Gen Z prefers tech-focused cars and see smart connectivity as a major purchasing factor (McKinsey & Co).
Unlike conventional cars, Nano Bug integrates AI companionship and a user-friendly digital ecosystem that Gen Z and Gen Alpha expect from their devices. It makes driving less of a task and more of an experience—personalized, intuitive, and enjoyable. Some features include Pre-planning Destination, Customizable Faces, Adjustable Moods, Voice Activation, and Projection.
Pininfarina Competition
SEMI FINALIST
Nano Bug was submitted to the Pininfarina Design Challenge '24, a competition with 10+ international design colleges. I was shortlisted as one of the top 16 concepts. Making it into the semi-finals, with a focus on materiality and driver interaction with the car instead of just aesthetics.