OVERVIEW
Throughout the developing world, motorcycles are the dominant mode of transport both for people and products due to their low cost and high fuel efficiency.
Only highly specialized motorcycles are optimized for cargo transport, and the vast majority of motorcycles or scooters used for transport goods in the third world are jerry-rigged to perform logistical tasks.
RESEARCH
Our class collaborated with a multitude of residents of major African cities for research.
The most common throughline was residents struggling with variable infrastructure from country to country and between urban and rural areas.
While large cities tend to have at least functional infrastructure, especially in relatively wealthier countries, suburbs tend to rely on highly informal forms of transportation, where local knowledge and personal relationships are more important than large logistical systems.
“South African infrastructure is world-class, but even big cities in Kenya have poor internet access, power outages, and bad roads.“
Vintner, Bethesda, South Africa
“It’s very difficult for artisans in rural areas to bring their products to market in larger cities.“
Professor, Cameroon
“Couriers work independently, and people build trust with specific contractors. Knowing that your package won’t be stolen is very important.“
Doctor, Accra, Ghana
“Traffic is horrible in my hometown of Dakar, and it’s worse in N’Djamena. Roads are too small to accomodate the number of people moving in.“
Student, N’Djamena, Chad
IDEATION & PROCESS
Form study
Final drawing used as reference for model
Base form, created in Rhino 3D
Form with components and lights added in Fusion 360
Rendered in KeyShot 3D
VIEWS IN CONTEXT, MODULES
