iSetta Based SEV Concept Vehicle

While rumors surrounding a possible revival of the iSetta brand by BMW are getting stronger, Ralph Panhuyzen is proposing a Space Efficient Vehicle (SEV) that is thought as a ‘crossover’ between a car and a motorcycle. The concept refers to a 80 to 110 mpg vehicle with small, conventional engines, or with electric propulsion.

“If only 1 out of a 100 prospective buyers would be interested in this 80-120 mpg crossover, then it may well create thousands of new jobs!” Panhuyzen says.

The SEV is described by the designer as “a Best of Both Worlds”. It has the front end of a regular car and the rear cowling reminiscent of the tail of a big motorcycle cruiser. The concept can use either a three-wheel or a semi-tricycle platform.

A spiritual successor of 'bubble cars' like the BMW Isetta and Messerschmitt, the SEV offers the driver superior 360-degree visibility, as there's no passenger next to the driver to block his side view. The driver is able to maintain eye contact with the passengers via the interior mirror, while a Lane Assist system helps the driver maintain lane position.

“The possibilities include opening up dedicated lanes, turning two lanes into three lanes, allowing dual lane use as with motorcycles, reconfigured parking lots and space-efficient interfaces with public transport," Panhuyzen writes on his blog.

“Many governments are planning to introduce some sort of road pricing. The more eco-friendly the vehicle, the lower the tariff. A lightweight construction allows for lean, sustainable manufacturing and savings that may actually raise profit margins, and will improve a manufacturer's overall emission and CAFE profile,” he adds.