BMW has announced the development of a new vehicle, but it’s not what you think. The company, known far and wide for its luxury automobiles, wants to remind you that – beneath the brand – it is a manufacturer first. Therefore, it makes sense that the company would apply its vehicle designing chops to a concept that provides more efficient movement for workers in its factories.
It’s called the Personal Mover Concept and, I’m just going to get this out of the way – it looks a little bit like a Segway. BMW describes it as a means for a factory worker to cover short distances, claiming some of its workers are currently traveling more than seven miles per day on foot.
The electric vehicle was designed after extensive discussions with facility staff, and the objective was to create something that was agile and easy-to-maneuver and fun to drive, but also tip-proof. Oh yeah, and it needed to be able to carry items.
The resulting concept offers a vehicle chargeable with a regular household socket, with a charge capacity that can run for up to 18 miles. BMW said its designed the standing platform to be large enough for a person, as well as a larger or bulkier item to be transported. A basket is affixed to the front for items like scan tools or small parts. Adding to the bike-like features, a bell can be used to warn other workers that you’re coming.
BMW’s vehicle may seem fairly basic, but it dovetails with the types of wellness initiatives that many manufacturers are undertaking to improve ergonomics and, subsequently, employee retention. With job vacancies surging, automakers need to come up with innovative ways to avoid the kind of burnout that is inevitable for workers who spend the entire day on their feet.