The “Citroen Skate” project remotely resembled transportation from the movie “I, Robot”, which drew attention to itself. This is truly a breakthrough in technology, which strangely was first implemented by France. We are already used to Japan, China, and the USA being leaders in this industry. But now, they will have to step down. Or quickly acquire a patent for the technology. Definitely, Citroen’s stock will rise. Nothing like this has been seen in the world before.
Citroen Skate – Transport Mobile Platform
Citroen Skate is a platform (suspension with wheelbase) for an autonomous electric vehicle. The feature of the design lies in its dimensions (2600x1600x510 mm) and functionality. The wheels of the Citroen Skate are spherical (ball-shaped). Thanks to this, the platform can move in any direction. An integrated intelligent system is responsible for autonomous control. By setting a preliminary route, the Citroen Skate will reach the specified location even through a city filled with cars.
The speed of the Citroen Skate platform is modest – up to 25 kilometers per hour. However, it can operate continuously. Special bases with inductive charging are developed for the autonomous system. If they are placed around the perimeter of the platform’s movement, everything will work automatically 24/7/365.
Particular attention is deserved by the hydraulic suspension. It not only softens shocks but also eliminates all vibrations. Although this is a debatable issue, as it depends on the road surface. Not all roads worldwide can boast high quality and absence of potholes.
Application of the Citroen Skate Platform
It is clear that such an interesting innovation is aimed at business. The French have not yet announced the price of the Citroen Skate. It seems the platform will cost more than a Ferrari. But Citroen has already come up with several interesting prototypes for implementing the project. And importantly, installing and removing modules on the platform takes only 10 seconds. Here are some examples of using the Citroen Skate:
- Construction compartment Sofitel En Voyage. Developed with the participation of the hotel chain Accor. It is a module for transporting important guests. Equipped with expensive furniture, upholstered in velvet, with panoramic windows. It has a luggage compartment. Such a module can be used to transport guests, for example, from the airport to hotels.
- Pullman Power Fitness module. It is a room with sports equipment. Aimed at businessmen who do not want to spend time visiting a gym. Simply, on the way to work or home, spend an hour on training.
- JCDecaux City Provider recreation center. A kind of mobile restaurant capable of accommodating up to 5 visitors. Comfortable chairs, pleasant lighting, equipment for drinks and food. Optionally, a TV or karaoke can be added.
- Information module. Aimed at the tourism business, where visitors can learn about the location, get a reference or assistance. As an option, it is convenient as an information block for everyone – weather, news, leisure.
In general, the implementation of the project is a matter of a small step. If the Citroen Skate platform receives permission from the municipality to move around the city, it will be easy to come up with applications for it. Starting from fast food and entertainment, to advertising campaigns and trade pavilions.
The Citroen Skate technology is new, interesting, and has a future. Investments and orders will definitely follow. Everything now depends on the authorities, who will give permission for the platform’s use or hinder it. It should not be forgotten that France is a member of the European Union. And here, everything depends on the collective mind of the European Union.
