Aug 19, 2015 | By Alec

With the release of the world’s first 3D printed car last year – which somewhat resembles a beach buggy – some futurists will have doubtlessly started dreaming of owning a 3D printed, actually safe and functional vehicle. However, that might become a reality sooner than you think, as one Spanish designer has recently unveiled a 3D printable scooter. Called the Paolo, by Josep Bolart, this is a minimalist electronic scooter that is ultra-cheap and can be made from recycled materials and even be (almost completely) 3D printed.

Bolart is a Barcelona-based artistic engineer who dreams of a simplified, less polluting future, and transportation is obviously the ideal place to begin realizing that future. And that, essentially, is the Paolo. It isn’t a truly futuristic or revolutionary or trendy design, but it might be exactly what we need: simple, easy to use, cheap, not polluting and mobile. And if you live in a metropolis like Barcelona, that is a very refreshing change. And yet, despite this functional purpose, the sleep, smooth edges and simple approach looks fantastic.

As such, it also consists of functional, no-nonsense parts. As Bolart explains, it comes with regenerative front brakes and a dual-mode operation, with the motor placed in a watertight hub at the back. The battery and all the required electronics are also integrated into the body of the Paolo to complete the look. While it might still be a bit early for technical specifications, Bolart has already said that the power will be provided by a 2 kW engine that produces 50 Nm (36.8 lb-ft) of torque.

However, the Paolo is also supposed to be aimed at individuals with individual desires. As such, the design is intended to be modular and can even be adapted for cargo possibilities – it’s all up to the user himself. Think adjustable height, adjustable design and adjustable functions. Bluetooth communication between the user and the bike – about battery life and other data, for instance, are also on Bolart’s agenda.

In short, it seems to have everything that the modern city dweller seems to look for, but none of these qualities are as fantastic as the production plan Bolart envisages. As he explains on twitter, the frame itself could be made from just about anything – recycled metals, machined aluminum – whatever is available and whatever is best for your surroundings. What’s more, virtually all other parts can be made with recycled plastics (or other available polymers) and can even be 3D printed – you only need a metal frame for rigidity. Not only would that be a low-cost option for customization, it obviously also means easily replacing damaged parts or changing the color scheme.

Really the only downside to the Paolo right now is that it is little more than a design. Bolart hopes to make the Paolo Scooter a reality by 2016, so it is well worth keeping an eye on him. Could this be the future of city life?

 

Posted in 3D Printing Applications

 

 

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john wrote at 8/21/2015 1:56:27 PM:

Nice!!!

Lalitha Anil wrote at 8/21/2015 9:47:56 AM:

I woould like to ahve more details and specificatiosn of the bike



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