Learn about the visionary projects presented at this year’s Maker Faire Rome 2023
Explore the future of urban mobility through visionary projects presented at Maker Faire Rome 2023. Discover how technological innovation is redefining the concept of transportation, from the rising adoption of electric vehicles and micromobility solutions to revolutionary projects such as the IeBK Intelli e-BiKit and the E-Tyres energy generator.
Technological evolution in urban mobility is going through a phase of incredible progress. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, new ideas and projects are redefining the concept of transportation.
In this article, we will take a real journey into the future of mobility and explore some interesting projects presented at Maker Faire Rome 2023 that show how creativity and technology can converge to transform the way we experience travel in and out of the city.
The future of mobility is now
Cars don’t fly over our heads yet – at least not often – but the present is already presenting a couple of pleasant surprises when it comes to mobility. The transportation ecosystem seems to be experiencing an extraordinary and unprecedented convergence between the use of advanced technologies and the rampant need to develop sustainable solutions.
Today, in fact, environmental challenges and increasing urbanization are pushing companies to radically rethink the concept of transportation, giving rise to electric, autonomous, and connected vehicles, which are gradually spreading through our cities with some success, contributing to the reduction of emissions and improving the efficiency of transportation systems. At the same time, digitization and artificial intelligence are giving rise to traffic management systems, improving the overall mobility experience. The future of the industry, however, is only one: an integrated ecosystem of interconnected vehicles and infrastructure, a landscape composed of an efficient, sustainable and intelligent network that promises to radically transform our mobility experience by making it safer, more convenient and environmentally sustainable. Here are some examples:
- Electric vehicles. One of the most noticeable trends in recent times is the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. These vehicles contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, promoting an overall positive change toward more sustainable habits.
- Autonomous vehicles. Autonomous driving is another innovative frontier in the mobility industry. Advanced artificial intelligence technologies are enabling the development of vehicles that can drive autonomously, reducing human involvement and improving road safety. This innovation could also lead to greater traffic efficiency and smarter use of related infrastructure.
- Urban micromobility. Micromobility solutions, such as electric scooters and shared bicycles, are emerging as flexible alternatives for urban travel. These lightweight and agile options enable people to cover relatively short distances quickly, reducing traffic congestion and improving livability in cities.
- Smart cities and digital technologies. Smart cities are leveraging digital technologies to optimize urban mobility. Smart traffic management systems, connected parking, and public transportation apps provide real-time information to users, improving travel efficiency and reducing traffic-related inconveniences.
Projects at Maker Faire Rome 2023
During the last edition of Maker Faire Rome 2023 we spoke with some makers who are revolutionizing the world of transportation, in all its nuances. Here are some of the projects we wanted to share.
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IeBK Intelli e-BiKit revolutionizes the world of electric bicycles
Roberto Tascioni, an energy engineer and researcher in the field of renewable energy, presented at Maker Faire Rome 2023 his innovative project called leBK Intelli e-Bikit, a bicycle electrification kit. It is a universal kit that allows a regular bicycle to be transformed into a pedal-assisted bicycle. What makes the project different from all others are several elements: an open source control unit that is constantly updated and upgradable by users, a continuous power output of 2.5 kW that allows it to reach a maximum speed of 70 km/h with a sensor-less permanent magnet BLDC motor designed for high-power drones. In addition, one of its winning features is the high-efficiency direct drive on the wheel with regenerative braking capability in addition to the solderless cell-balancing LiFePO4 battery. This innovative solution is the result of its inventor’s passion for creating sustainable objects not available on the market.
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E-Tyres: how to generate energy in motion
Team ThunderVolt from the Istituto Superiore Volta in Castel San Giovanni proposes the E-Tyres project, an application to generate power in a green and free way. But how? Through the use of piezoelectric sensors on tires, rims, road surfaces or railways, which are essential for generating power in motion in a completely innovative way. With a youthful approach, the team of 15-17 year olds demonstrated how it works through the presentation of a prototype applied to the rear wheel of a bicycle, which was made available to the public for demonstration. This initiative not only highlights the importance of sustainable energy, but also demonstrates the potential of the younger generation in addressing crucial societal challenges.
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Parko: a sustainable solution for intelligent parking
Parko is a project that focuses on transforming parking management by promoting efficiency and sustainability. Through smart technology, parking efficiency is optimized: with a system that integrates real-time monitoring, data analytics, and mobile applications, Parko’s goal is to maximize parking utilization, reduce congestion, and improve the overall user experience. Khaled Megahed, CEO and Business Development Manager, and Dr. M. Nazmy, Co-Founder and CTO, lead a team dedicated to creating a future in which parking is fast, efficient, and smart.
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Swipe Mobility: compact and sustainable micromobility
Finally, the Swipe Mobility project focuses on designing more compact micromobility vehicles to improve the efficiency and environmental impact of urban transportation. The innovative proposal of this entrepreneurial venture consists of motorized soles that can be attached to shoes. This approach takes micromobility to the next level by offering a portable and easily transportable solution. The vehicle’s acceleration and deceleration are, moreover, controlled via a smartphone that acts, in this case, as a controller. Once finished in use, the vehicle can be conveniently stored in the backpack or bag provided. The team, composed of Nicola Quattrone, Alessandro Mattioli, Rosario Santoro, Roberto Zanichelli, Roberta Irardi, Diego Sebastiani, and Federico Mazzaglia, promotes sustainability by making mobility compact and accessible to all.
Maker Faire Rome – The European Edition has been committed since its very first editions to make innovation accessible and usable to all, with the aim of not leaving anyone behind. Its blog is always updated and full of opportunities and inspiration for makers, makers, startups, SMEs and all the curious ones who wish to enrich their knowledge and expand their business, in Italy and abroad.
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