Empowering rural communities

As urbanization increases, rural areas in Sweden are facing growing challenges related to mobility. Access to public transport and shared mobility solutions is limited, leading to a greater dependence on privately owned vehicles. This creates both environmental and social issues, where individuals without access to a car risk being excluded from employment, leisure activities, and essential public services. This project is based on a user-centered design process, informed by insights from the target group, expert interviews, and relevant research reports. The outcome is a conceptual proposal for a self-driving shared vehicle with a flexible, user-focused interior. Special emphasis has been placed on accessibility for users with varying functional abilities, transport of equipment, and safety features such as BankID identification and camera systems. The design process has involved extensive research, user interviews, and scenario development. The visual language and material choices are inspired by the nature in northern Sweden, emphasizing durability, functionality, and warmth. The concept demonstrates how design can contribute to greater mobility equity – even beyond the urban context.