Prototype Vehicles 

A 1970s VW Super Beetle was retrofitted with Indigo's hub motors to demonstrate the technology and further the controls algorithm. My contributions included modeling and sizing the cooling system, as well as, assisting with the mechanical integration of the suspension, electronics, and other subsystems.

As my first vehicle project, I learned about the required systems for operation from the mechanical, electrical, and software sides.

Project Takeaways:

• Efficient packaging of electronics and coolant lines

• Knowledge of automotive standards for cooling fittings and brake lines

• Hands-on experience running lines and modifications to the body

• Assisting in troubleshooting high voltage battery faults and pre-charge failures

• Initial calibration of motors

The second vehicle project I was involved in was the initial prototype and show vehicles for Indigo's Flow variants. This included three designs: an engineering prototype for testing, a ride-hail variant, and a cargo van.

I was involved in the design in several aspects:

• Requirements engineering, sizing brakes and motors

• Design of the active suspension knuckle, active suspension links, and wheel bearing selection

• Working with our vehicle partner and design team to define key interfaces

• Documenting integration

• Mechanical integration and set up of corners

Project Takeaways:

• Working with consultants and OEMs to build vehicle and source parts

• In-depth suspension design and interactions with vehicle dynamics

• Hands on experience doing initial suspension set up (corner weights, ride heights, ect.)

• Exposure to automotive design process