Swiss automaker Rinspeed has become a staple of the Geneva Motor Show in years past, and 2012 is no different. Best known for its off-the-wall creations, Rinspeed has unveiled a three-axled version of the smart fortwo at the Geneva show.
Dubbed “Dock+Go,” the concept essentially consists of an electric smart fortwo with a “pack” that connects to the rear of the vehicle. Described as a “backpack on wheels,” the single-axle pack can serve a variety of purposes.
Rinspeed envisions a number of different packs being available for the Dock+Go, each tailored to a specific use. For example, one pack might have an integrated heated box for food delivery companies while another designed for tradesman would have spaces for tools.
In order to boost the smart’s 75-mile electric range, Rinspeed has also developed the concept of an “energy pack”, which would consist of either an extra battery pack, a range-extending combustion engine or a fuel-cell. Rinspeed has also designed the third-axle energy pack to drive the car’s second axle, thereby recharging its battery via a regeneration system. Rinspeed bills the system as the world’s first Vario-Hybrid.
Continuing its green theme, the Dock+Go can be charged at home by a solar power system.
Rinspeed has yet to put any of its vehicles into mass production, and we don’t expect the Dock+Go to break that trend.
