Beyond the Road: Inclusive Electric Vehicle Design for Automotive Inclusivity

Presentation Type

Table

Campus

Daytona Beach

Status

Student

Faculty/Staff Department

Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology

Student Year and Major

3rd year PhD student in Human Factors

Organization, if requesting a table

EcoCAR

Presentation Description/Abstract

Mismatches, refer to situations where designed objects or products do not align with the needs and abilities of users often leading to social invisibility, a detriment often mimicking physical pain for those affected. Mismatches in automotive design can regularly occur for those with disabilities leading to an increased likelihood of social exclusion, accidents, and injuries due to the lack of accommodations. In contrast, inclusive design for electric vehicles (EVs) has the potential to foster a sense of belonging and enhance user experiences. EVs provide key advantages including reduced vibrations, smooth and instant torque, quiet operations, increased customization options, and reduced maintenance compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. EVs can also contribute to a more sustainable society by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and dependence on finite fossil fuel resources. Our research aims to challenge social invisibility and explores a discourse for inclusive EV designs broadening consumer markets with accommodations for various physical, cognitive, and sensory abilities. Additionally, we explore how the presence of inclusive safety features, advanced warning systems, and accommodations for various medical conditions can result in fewer accidents and their associated medical expenses. By addressing mobility mismatches and shifting towards more inclusive design, we hope to foster a sense of independence and safety in mobility allowing individuals to participate more fully in education, employment and recreational activities.

Keywords

Electric Vehicle, Inclusive Design, Disabilities, Accessibility, Equity in Mobility

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Beyond the Road: Inclusive Electric Vehicle Design for Automotive Inclusivity

Mismatches, refer to situations where designed objects or products do not align with the needs and abilities of users often leading to social invisibility, a detriment often mimicking physical pain for those affected. Mismatches in automotive design can regularly occur for those with disabilities leading to an increased likelihood of social exclusion, accidents, and injuries due to the lack of accommodations. In contrast, inclusive design for electric vehicles (EVs) has the potential to foster a sense of belonging and enhance user experiences. EVs provide key advantages including reduced vibrations, smooth and instant torque, quiet operations, increased customization options, and reduced maintenance compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. EVs can also contribute to a more sustainable society by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and dependence on finite fossil fuel resources. Our research aims to challenge social invisibility and explores a discourse for inclusive EV designs broadening consumer markets with accommodations for various physical, cognitive, and sensory abilities. Additionally, we explore how the presence of inclusive safety features, advanced warning systems, and accommodations for various medical conditions can result in fewer accidents and their associated medical expenses. By addressing mobility mismatches and shifting towards more inclusive design, we hope to foster a sense of independence and safety in mobility allowing individuals to participate more fully in education, employment and recreational activities.