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¨Tramspiral¨ por Rodolfo Ciudad Witzel

Transpiral concept

The spiral is a fascinating structure that we find in nature and in the universe. From our own fingerprints to the structure of the galaxies, it is the common element that identifies and unifies us.

The idea is to design the Tramway as a unified element leaving aside the concept of interior and exterior. The intention is to integrate all the elements, opening up in this way the interior to the exterior. The spiral structure embraces the interior with the exterior, working like a unifying nexus. All the functional elements of the inner space emerge from this structure and the exterior design is also dictated by it. In this way, we create a profound interaction between all of its components. This vehicle is inspired by the spiral not only because of what it symbolizes or for its dynamism, but also because of the sensations it transmits. This curve has the power to transmit to us, in almost a hypnotic way, a sensation of calmness and pleasantness.

Flexible inner space

The seats are multifunctional; we can use them as a disabled seat area, as a bicycle area and also, during rush hour, we can pull them all back in order to use the inner space efficiently. The seats are made of a flexible material and they have a retractable mechanism that allows pulling them out and back in.

Public transportation should be an event

We have to forget that a public transportation vehicle is an object that transports us from point “A” to “B”. If we want it to compete with cars and put them away from big cities, it is necessary that public transportation become an event. The vehicle has to seduce people; it has to capture people’s attention. It has to be able to transmit emotions to its users. The tramway must project an image of itself and also from the city. It must become a symbol that projects the identity of the city and its inhabitants.

The Tramway is different from all other trains because it is a train that becomes part of the urban landscape; we will have to coexist with it every day. That’s why we have to care so much about the emotional and stylistic characteristics.