A jet-nose for future trucks?

THE Innotruck is the futuristic vision of what trucking could become, created by the Technical University Munich’s Diesel Reloaded project.

The students aimed “to demonstrate how paradigm shifts in automotive, energy, and information technologies can help to address major societal trends and needs.”

Inside the Innotruck's jet-nosed
cabin, there is very little to distract
the driver from the road ahead.

Fully electric, the truck also has displays and controls that can adapt to each driver’s capabilities, and to constantly changing conditions, such as traffic flow and driver alertness. This ensures that the driver will never be deluged with more information than they need for the task currently at hand, but will also automatically receive data as it is needed.

Energy management is another major focus of Innotruck. Described as a micro-smart grid, the vehicle is able to manage the energy flow not only from its battery pack, but also from onboard solar cells, wind turbines and regenerative brakes. It even features electrical outlets along its sides, so other vehicles can recharge from it when it’s stopped, and so it can release energy into the municipal grid.

All photos: Gizmag

The truck’s distinctive looks come thanks to noted automotive designer professor Luigi Colani — it definitely bears at least a passing resemblance to the eleMMent recreational vehicle, which is based on one of his designs.

Innotruck was shown at the MobiliTec week-long international trade fair at the Hannover Messe until last Friday.