It’s always exciting to see a truly new and innovative product, but it’s even more exciting to know that it was made using our tools. Recently, I had the chance to visit Brazilian startup Mobilis, who is using Autodesk Fusion 360 to design their electric vehicle, the “Li”.
With a caravan of journalists in tow, we made the trip to the company’s Santa Catarina headquarters to test out their cars and learn more about how they were designed and made. It was a great experience where we were able to get hands-on and not only touch the technology, but “drive” it.
Here are some of the coolest things about the Li:
It’s built to tackle challenges of urban mobility
Mobilis launched the “Li” at the end of 2017. It’s the first 100% Brazilian electric vehicle, powered by lithium ion batteries. The startup was founded by three engineers who want to find better, more intelligent solutions for urban transportation.
It’s 100% electric AND 100% designed with Autodesk Fusion 360.
The vehicle was 3D-modeled in Fusion 360, our cloud-based product development software that combines design, engineering and manufacturing in a single package. The Mobilis team chose Fusion 360 for its ease of use and its cloud-powered collaboration and data management capabilities. Designs for the vehicle can be accessed from anywhere at any time, so the team can easily make updates and have the most up-to-date version.
According to the design leaders, Fusion 360 is powerful enough for the needs of a complex initiative like this. The full package of design, simulation and fabrication has an intuitive interface, making it easy to learn and use.
It embraces the Internet of Things
Mobilis wants to make cars for sharing, not owning. The Li also has an app platform that allows for driver identification and monitors each vehicle to ensure they’re operating smoothly. Soon they hope to work with developers to develop further apps on the vehicle’s platform.
Currently, Mobilis develops modular platform electric vehicles to be used in resorts, condominiums, industries and public services. Soon, they expect to launch an urban car model that will be made available to the Brazilian consumer market.
Richard Max, one of the journalists who joined the trip, put it well: “I think it was very interesting to see a Brazilian electric car design. There’s still time before these cars are available on the market, but they are going in the right direction. I’m excited to see more affordable electric cars on the streets.”
