Southfield, Michigan, USA

“The PEV is unique in that it puts public interest at the forefront,” said Michael Lozano, Chief Creative Designer of DENSO International America Inc.

“It considers the needs of users, transportation companies and society as a whole. That’s why the ‘P’ in ‘PEV’ stands for ‘persuasive.’ Our goal with this vehicle is to communicate to cities and its inhabitants that when vehicles are connected, electrified and can run autonomously, it creates smarter and more efficient transportation.”

The need for smart cities in today’s society is great; that includes thoroughfares that allow for smarter and more efficient transport.

The PEV fits perfectly into this scenario, being electric powered encourages sustainable transportation and reduces the carbon footprint, as compared to traditional carbon-emitting vehicles.

This revolutionary vehicle helps reduce congestion by alleviating the need for people with short commutes to have to rely on traditional vehicles.

Another benefit is, given the gentle and precise natures of the PEV, is safe transportation for elderly and disabled individuals.

In general, this vehicle is human-interaction friendly, and allows pedestrians to trust autonomous vehicles as they begin to integrate into urban society.

To address the dynamic elements of city travel, the PEV combines the agility of a bicycle with the capability and comfort of an electric vehicle. It can run on manual-pedal propulsion or fully motorized autonomous drive.

Some of its other most impressive features include.

Vehicle-to-pedestrian communication: The PEV communicates with pedestrians in proximity, using directed driver eye movement, via full spectrum LED lights, projector and directional speakers.

Remote ride-hailing: A ride is just a click away, via a smartphone app. The user can also customize the comfort and ride settings before the PEV arrives.

Face ID: For security, the PEV uses facial recognition to confirm the user, and access their individual driver profile.

Follow mode: The PEV can safely follow the user if they would rather walk or carry goods for the user.

Air Curtain: DENSO’s HVAC paired to small turbo nozzles create an air curtain around the driver.

This curtain will surround the driver to create the ideal comfortable environment.

HVAC seating: The rear HVAC unit helps pump heating and cooling into the driver’s seat back and bottom.

HVAC storage: The HVAC in the rear allows users to keep their packages at optimal temperatures during travel.

The PEV is the perfect vehicle for companies to purchase a fleet, that can be utilized for various transport purposes, such as autonomous deliveries.

Its robust and flexible ride-sharing platform also allows for individuals to easily call the PEV to their location via a smartphone app.

Other design benefits include pedestrian safety, thanks to advanced autonomous technology and vehicle-to-human interaction.

Plus, the PEV’S sophisticated onboard heating and cooling system allows the vehicle to used comfortably for a longer time period during the year.

Project: DENSO Persuasive Electric Vehicle (PEV)
Designers: MIT Media Lab Science Group
Design Team: Michael Lozano, Dustin Garrett, and Yukihiro Kajita
Manufacturer: DENO International America Inc.