The Autonomous Province of Bolzano
has a definite interest in environmental issues.
See its promotion of CasaClima, an
agency for products and manufacturers that
are selected for energy-saving and durable
construction techniques and materials. ClimateHouse
(as it has been translated) also
has a system that certifies buildings according
to environmental standards. Bolzano’s latest
effort is focused on city transit: electric cars,
motorcycles and bicycles will be available to
citizens adhering to a sharing programme.
The E-Move Charging Station is an essential
part of the formula. Coordinated by Centro di
Competenza MetaMorphosis, the stations will
be equipped with eight photovoltaic panels integrated
in the roof to capture the sun’s rays
and transform them into electricity. Stations
will be positioned in selected locations of the
city. MM Design, whose members are among
the founders of Centro di Competenza, designed
the E-Move to be a non-invasive yet recognisable
part of the city-scape. Its wing-like
shape gives the solar panels good exposure to
the sun. The slanted canopy structure is made
of steel girders and fixed to the ground by a
cement plinth. On the outside, a water-repellent
bench offers passers-by a seat and a free
recharge for laptops, cellphones and other
portable gadgets. Inside, at the structure’s
base, lie the well-protected technical units:
inverters and power boxes to recharge vehicles
in exchange for payment. User-friendly icons
guarantee quick, frustration-free refuelling.
By night, the stations become reassuring luminous
beacons. All materials are environment-
sustaining and tamper-proof.
In April 2009, the new E-Move Charging
Station was presented to Bolzano’s city administration,
councillors and local politicians.
Currently the first prototype is going through
a test phase and once this has been completed
successfully, the modules are to be marketed
throughout Europe. MCT
E-move charging station
E-Move Charging Station. Solar Mobility in the City, a project by MM Design
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- 02 September 2009
- Bolzano