Rinspeed Previews Its 'Skateboard' Chassis
The Snap concept vehicle will make its official debut at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
The automotive world as we’ve known it for decades is evolving, with electric vehicles becoming more and more affordable to design and manufacture. Helping make it easier are “skateboard” chassis, that houses electric motors and batteries making it simple for an automaker to design a body around it. Swiss think tank Rinspeed is looking to tkae the idea to a new level with its Snap concept vehicle, which separates the chassis and body components entirely.
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Rinspeed’s idea is that the body structures, called “pods,” would be virtually free from mechanical wear and tear. They would be equipped with long-lasting IT components, with each pod being versatile enough to serve different purposes. For example, a pod could be used for passenger transport, while another would be for delivery or parcel services, or even a weekend trip with the family. They would be able to use any chassis that happens to be available – or they could serve as stationary pods like a temporary office in the city.
Rinspeed points out the skateboard chassis could even be completely recycled once it reaches the end of its life cycle.
Expect to hear more details about Rinspeed’s Snap concept vehicle early next year once the Consumer Electronics Show rolls around.
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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