WO2008151087A2

WO2008151087A2 - Vehicle structures and designs

Info

Publication number: WO2008151087A2
Application number: PCT/US2008/065427
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel Koester; Arne Dassen; Craig Rigby; Jonathan P. Cansfield; David B. Busch; Dale J. Frye
Original assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
Priority date: 2007-06-01
Filing date: 2008-05-30
Publication date: 2008-12-11
Also published as: WO2008151087A3

Abstract

An electric vehicle is provided with a variety of features to reduce weight, increase storage capacity, improve ergonomics, and improve the overall effectiveness of the electric vehicle. In certain exemplary embodiments, the vehicle may include a lightweight cockpit including at least one of a bamboo composite panel, a riffle pattern, an aluminum panel with a hard anodized surface, an automotive office environment, an asymmetric seat with an integrated shifter, a contoured floor panel with an integral seat platform and/or bulkhead, or a dashboard with a break-away top panel for deployment of an airbag. In certain exemplary embodiments, the vehicle may include a lightweight cargo section including at least one of a skeletal wall, an extruded honeycomb skin, top and bottom access panels, a sidewall daylight opening (DLO) with integral air cooling, a swappable roof cap, or a removable bulkhead.

Description

VEHICLE STRUCTURES AND DESIGNS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/924,831, entitled "VEHICLE STRUCTURES AND DESIGNS", filed June 1, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The invention relates generally to vehicle structures and designs.

[0003] Vehicles affect the environment in many ways, for example, by consuming resources and creating pollutants in their construction as well as consuming fossil fuels and exhausting pollutants in their operation. Conventional vehicles include an internal combustion engine powered by a fossil fuel, such as gasoline or diesel fuel. Internal combustion engines exhaust pollutants, such as carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and particulate matter, into the environment.

[0004] An electric vehicle (EV) or electric drive vehicle may be generally described as a vehicle driven by one or more electric motors powered by batteries. For example, hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) include a conventional internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors, which may be operated alone or in combination with one another to drive wheels of the vehicle. Batteries for these electric motors may be charged by the internal combustion engine, by an external electrical source, or by another electrical generating source. As compared to conventional vehicles, hybrid electrical vehicles improve efficiency and environmental impact, for example, by improving gas mileage and reducing exhaust pollutants. Vehicle weight can greatly affect the gas mileage and environmental impact of these vehicles. Weight reduction is particularly challenging in vehicles needing storage space, configurability, and the like. For example, fleet vehicles, such as delivery vans, service vans, and the like, typically need storage space and configurability. SUMMARY

[0005] The present invention relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a first battery configured to power a first electric motor, a second battery configured to power a second electric motor, and a cargo space separating the first battery from the second battery.

[0006] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a cargo section having a skeletal wall disposed about an interior cargo space. The skeletal wall may include a plurality of beams without an interior covering in the interior cargo space. The beams may include horizontal beams and vertical beams coupled to one another.

[0007] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a lightweight panel having a riffle pattern configured to enhance rigidity, reduce mass, and diffuse acoustics

[0008] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include an interior panel made of a bamboo composite.

[0009] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a body having an interior space, an access opening into the interior space, and a pair of access panels disposed one over another across the access opening. The access panels may be configured to open and close in opposite directions relative to one another.

[0010] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a cockpit having an automotive office environment.

[0011] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a seat having a surface that extends from a seat bottom to a gear shifter, wherein the surface integrates the gear shifter. [0012] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a seat comprising a seating surface that is asymmetric between an inboard side and an outboard side of a cockpit

[0013] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a sidewall daylight opening (DLO) having an air cooling passage extending between opposite windows.

[0014] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a roof having a swappable roof cap mounted removably in a roof cap receptacle.

[0015] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a vehicle door having an armrest, wherein the arm rest has a C-shaped cross- section made of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt.

[0016] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a contoured floor panel having a raised portion with an integral seat platform. The integral seat platform may include an integral track system.

[0017] The present invention also relates to an electric vehicle. The vehicle may include a vehicle dashboard having a body having a top panel. The vehicle dashboard may include an airbag disposed below the top panel, wherein the top panel is configured to at least partially move upward to deploy the airbag.

DRAWINGS

[0018] FIGURE 1 is perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fleet of electric or hybrid electric vehicles in use making deliveries at a store.

[0019] FIGURE 2A is schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle.

[0020] FIGURE 2B is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing side-mounted batteries and electric motors. [0021] FIGURE 3 is a diagrammatical top view of an exemplary embodiment of the vehicle of FIGURE 2B, showing direct air cooling of the side-mounted batteries.

[0022] FIGURE 4 is a diagrammatical top view of another embodiment of the vehicle of FIGURE 2B, showing a closed-loop coolant cycle for cooling the side- mounted batteries.

[0023] FIGURE 5 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing a lightweight interior cockpit.

[0024] FIGURE 6 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a lightweight bulkhead and a contoured floor panel having an integral seat platform and lateral storage space.

[0025] FIGURE 7 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a contoured floor panel having an integral seat platform with an integral track system.

[0026] FIGURE 8 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a removable lightweight bulkhead having a riffle pattern.

[0027] FIGURE 9 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a multitude of trusses integrated into a contoured floor panel.

[0028] FIGURE 10 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a multitude of cantilevers to support a storage unit and a seat bottom.

[0029] FIGURE 11 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a configurable driver pod.

[0030] FIGURE 12 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a hand control system on a steering wheel. [0031] FIGURE 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle dashboard, showing a multitude of plug and play modules disposed within a lightweight body.

[0032] FIGURE 14 is a perspective view of a bottom panel of an exemplary embodiment of the vehicle dashboard of FIGURE 13.

[0033] FIGURE 15 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the vehicle dashboard of FIGURE 13.

[0034] FIGURE 16 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle dashboard, showing an airbag between a top panel and a mid-panel.

[0035] FIGURE 17 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the vehicle dashboard of FIGURE 16, showing deployment of the air bag.

[0036] FIGURE 18 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight overhead panel for a vehicle cockpit.

[0037] FIGURE 19 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a visor for the lightweight overhead panel of FIGURE 18.

[0038] FIGURE 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an overhead console for the lightweight overhead panel of FIGURE 18.

[0039] FIGURE 21 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight vehicle door.

[0040] FIGURE 22 is a partial cutaway perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an armrest of the lightweight vehicle door of FIGURE 21.

[0041] FIGURE 23 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle seat, showing an asymmetrical seat bottom.

[0042] FIGURE 24 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing a gear shifter integrated into a vehicle seat. [0043] FIGURE 25 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lightweight interior cockpit, showing an automotive office environment.

[0044] FIGURE 26 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a utility assembly having a deployable storage unit for use in a vehicle cockpit.

[0045] FIGURE 27 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a deployable cushion utility for use in a vehicle cockpit, showing the utility in a stowed position.

[0046] FIGURE 28 is a perspective view of the deployable cushion utility of FIGURE 27, showing the utility in an open position.

[0047] FIGURE 29 is a side view of the deployable cushion utility of FIGURE 27, showing the utility in an open position.

[0048] FIGURE 30 is a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing a central storage space nested between side- mounted batteries and electric motors.

[0049] FIGURE 31 is a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing longitudinal cooling fins along a floor panel.

[0050] FIGURE 32 is a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing top and bottom access panels for side access into a cargo section.

[0051] FIGURE 33 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing a cargo section having an airplane-like aluminum frame structure.

[0052] FIGURE 34 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a universal interlock disposed within the frame of FIGURE 33.

[0053] FIGURE 35 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an exterior panel coupled to the frame of FIGURE 33. [0054] FIGURE 36 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing an exchangeable roof cap system and a sidewall daylight opening.

[0055] FIGURE 37 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the sidewall daylight opening of FIGURE 36.

[0056] FIGURE 38 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hybrid electric vehicle, showing rear and side access with top and bottom tambour doors.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fleet of vehicles 10 in use making deliveries at a store. In certain exemplary embodiments, each vehicle 10 may include an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The term EV includes the subsets HEV and PHEV, as each of these vehicles 10 is generally powered at least partially or entirely by one or more battery packs, which can be charged via a variety of power sources. In one exemplary embodiment, vehicle 10 may be coupled to a power grid or generator via a power station or kiosk 2 at a store, building, or site 4. For example, an electrical cable 6 may be coupled to kiosk 2 and plug-in connector 8 on vehicle 10. While goods are exchanged at site 4, batteries may be recharged via connection between vehicle 10 and kiosk 2. A similar kiosk 2 may be located at each drop-off or pick-up zone at site 4, and each site 4 along a delivery route, such that vehicle 10 maintains a sufficient charge to continue operation without substantial downtime. Exemplary embodiments of vehicle 10 include a lightweight construction with enhanced features.

[0058] FIGURE 2A is schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10 having various features to reduce weight, improve efficiency, and increase storage capacity. Vehicle 10 includes a front end 12, an occupant compartment or cockpit 14 disposed near front end 12, and a cargo section 16 disposed behind cockpit 14. A bulkhead 18 also separates cockpit 14 from cargo section 16. Vehicle 10 also includes a combustion engine 20, one or more battery packs 22, and one or more electric motors 24 driven by battery packs 22. Combustion engine 20 and electric motors 24 are configured to drive front and/or rear wheels 26 and 28 of vehicle 10. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGURE 2A, combustion engine 20 is disposed within an engine compartment 30 at front end 12 of vehicle 10, wherein combustion engine 20 drives front wheels 26 via a suitable transmission (e.g., a continuously variable transmission). Battery packs 22 and electric motors 24 are configured to drive rear wheels 28 via another suitable transmission. Combustion engine 20 and electric motors 24 may operate independent or in cooperation with one another to provide either front wheel drive, or rear wheel drive, or four wheel drive depending on factors such as road conditions, slope, fuel efficiency, and power requirements. In an exemplary embodiment, the interior and exterior features of vehicle 10 are designed to reduce weight and fuel consumption of vehicle 10.

[0059] Cockpit 14 is surrounded by front end 12, bulkhead 18, a contoured floor panel 32, a roof 34, a windshield 36, and a pair of doors 38. In an exemplary embodiment, contoured floor panel 32 is a cast aluminum component having a foot rest 40, a base portion 42, an incline portion 44 leading to a raised portion 46, and a lower portion 48 below raised portion 46. Raised and lower portions 46 and 48 also may define a lateral storage area 50 and/or other integral storage compartments. Contoured floor panel 32 also may include an integrated firewall 52 and a portion of bulkhead 18. Contoured floor panel 32 and bulkhead 18 support a seat 54 having a seat bottom 56 and a seat back 58. In an exemplary embodiment, raised portion 46 of contoured floor panel 32 includes an integral seat platform 60, which supports seat bottom 56. Seat back 58 couples to a bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18. In an exemplary embodiment, bottom portion 62 is fixed within vehicle 10, while a top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 is removable for easy access between cockpit 14 and cargo section 16.

[0060] Cockpit 14 also includes a vehicle dashboard 66 having various features to reduce weight, simplicity, and modularity within vehicle 10. A knee bolster zone 67 at a bottom of dashboard 66 may be an integral part of dashboard 66 or contoured floor panel 32. In an exemplary embodiment, vehicle dashboard 66 has a molded Styrofoam body with a stretch fabric exterior, integral plug and play receptacles to receive dashboard components, integral ducting for air conditioning and heating, and a break-away top panel for deployment of an airbag.

[0061] Other components within cockpit 14 also may have a molded Styrofoam body with a stretch fabric exterior similar to dashboard 66, or a cast aluminum structure similar to contoured floor panel 32. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, door 38 includes cast aluminum interior panels with a molded Styrofoam armrest and a stretch fabric storage pocket. Door 38 also may include an angled window 68, which tapers downwardly from bulkhead 18 toward front end 12 of vehicle 10. The tapered or angled geometry of window 68 may improve driver visibility and/or improve structural integrity of vehicle 10 in the vicinity of bulkhead 18.

[0062] Cargo section 16 has a cargo volume 70 surrounded by bulkhead 18, a rear access 72, roof 34, a floor panel 74, and opposite sides 76. In an exemplary embodiment, rear access 72 includes a top access panel 78 and a bottom access panel 80, which are independently movable to access a cargo volume 70. For example, top and bottom access panels 78 and 80 may be hingedly coupled to vehicle 10, such that top access panel 78 rotates upwardly and bottom access panel rotates downwardly to provide an opening into cargo volume 70. By further example, top and bottom access panels 78 and 80 may be tambour doors that slide away from one another to provide an opening into the cargo volume 70.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, opposite sides 76 of cargo section 16 include a side access 82 having top and bottom access panels 84 and 86 to provide side access into cargo volume 70 and various storage compartments. For example, top and bottom access panels 84 and 86 may be hingedly coupled to vehicle 10, such that top access panel 84 rotates upwardly and bottom access panel 86 rotates downwardly to provide an opening into cargo volume 70. By further example, top and bottom access panels 84 and 86 may include top and bottom tambour doors to provide access into cargo volume 70. Cargo volume 70 may include a multitude of storage compartments, shelves, or the like, disposed along an interior of opposite sides 76, such that a user can gain access from either rear access 72 or side access 82. [0064] Cargo volume 70 include a nested central storage area 88 defined by a dropped central floor panel 90 and opposite raised side floor panels 92 of floor panel 74. In an exemplary embodiment, battery packs 22 and electric motors 24 are disposed on opposite sides 76 of cargo section 16 below raised side floor panels 92. The side mounting of battery packs 22 and electric motors 24 increases a vertical clearance within cargo volume 70, while also freeing additional storage space in central storage area 88. Vehicle 10 also includes a path for airflow 94 from a front wheel well 96 to a rear wheel well 98, such that battery pack 22 and electric motor 24 can be cooled by a direct air flow or by a closed-loop coolant cycle having at least one heat exchanger.

[0065] In certain exemplary embodiments, interior and exterior components of vehicle 10 are made with lightweight materials. In one exemplary embodiment, interior and exterior components are made by roll-forming, extruding, or casting aluminum into the desired shape, and then hard anodizing the surface to increase corrosion and wear resistance. For example, roof 34 may be made with a roll-formed aluminum panel having a hard anodized surface. In one exemplary embodiment, an entire exterior 100 of vehicle 10 is made of aluminum with a hard anodized surface. Contoured floor panel 32 and other panels within cockpit 14 also may be constructed with a cast, extruded, or roll-formed aluminum having a hard anodized surface. In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more interior and exterior components may be made with an extruded plastic honeycomb structure, e.g., a milky-white semi- translucent plastic or polymer. For example, a substantial portion of exterior 100 may be covered with an extruded plastic honeycomb skin. A similar extruded plastic honeycomb structure may be used for interior components, such as interior panels, visors, and so forth. In certain exemplary embodiments, various interior and exterior components may be made with an eco-friendly material (e.g., an eco-core or eco-fiber material) having a fabric exterior or excluding a fabric exterior, such that the eco-core material is exposed rather than covered. For example, the eco-friendly material may include a variety of natural materials, used alone or in combination with other materials, such that the component is biodegradable. In certain exemplary embodiments, various interior and exterior components may be made with an eco- friendly biodegradable composite material, such as a renewable bamboo mache composite. For example, the bamboo composite may include a bamboo fiber- reinforced plastic, a bamboo fiber-reinforced epoxy, a bamboo aluminum composite, a bamboo carbon composite, or another suitable bamboo composite. The bamboo composite may be used for structural members, exterior panels, interior panels, and components, such as vehicle dashboard 66, visors, overhead panels, floor panels, interior panels, and the like. In certain exemplary embodiments, interior and exterior components may be made with a molded Styrofoam covered with a stretch fabric, a thermal molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt or another suitable recyclable polymer, a multi-layered structure having a rigid layer (e.g., aluminum and an insulative layer (e.g., Styrofoam), and so forth. Each of these materials may be used alone or in combination with one another throughout the interior and exterior of vehicle 10.

[0066] FIGURE 2B is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10 as shown in FIGURE 2A, wherein exterior 100 is removed to show interior features of vehicle 10. Cockpit 14 includes a pair of seats 54 coupled to respective seat platforms 60 integrally formed in contoured floor panel 32. Contoured floor panel 32 may include integral fenders 110 and side steps 112. In an exemplary embodiment, contoured floor panels 32 may be a cast aluminum structure having a hard anodized surface. In certain exemplary embodiments, contoured floor panels 32 may be a thermo molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt or another suitable recyclable polymer, a bamboo composite, or another eco-friendly material. Seat 54 may be made from a variety of lightweight materials to reduce the weight of vehicle 10. In one exemplary embodiment, seats 54 are made with a Styrofoam core covered by a stretch fabric material. Bulkhead 18 also may be made from a variety of lightweight materials. In one exemplary embodiment, bulkhead 18 may have a multi- layered structure having a rigid structural layer and a lightweight insulation layer. For example, bulkhead 18 may include a Styrofoam panel disposed adjacent an aluminum panel or sandwiched between a pair of aluminum panels. Floor panel 74 also may be made from various lightweight materials. In one exemplary embodiment, floor panel 74 is a cast aluminum panel with multiple levels to define raised side floor panels 92 about dropped central floor panel 90. Cooling air flow 94 also flows through ducts along opposite sides 76 of vehicle 10 to cool opposite side-mounted battery packs 22 and electric motors 24.

[0067] FIGURE 3 is a diagrammatical top view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10 as shown in FIGURES 2A and 2B, showing direct air cooling of battery backs 22 and motors 24. Floor panel 74 includes a first channel 120 and a second channel 122 disposed along opposite sides 76 below raised side floor panels 92. First channel 120 houses a first set 124 of battery pack 22 and motor 24, while second channel 122 houses a second set 126 of battery pack 22 and motor 24. At opposite sides 76, airflow 94 enters, passes through, and exits first and second channels 120 and 122 to directly cool battery packs 22 and motors 24. In certain exemplary embodiments, battery packs 22 and motors 24 include fins to increase the surface area for convective heat transfer. First and second channels 120 and 122 may include one or more fans to provide airflow 94 while vehicle 10 is not moving. First and second channels 120 and 122 may include a multitude of interior or exterior fins to enhance convective heat transfer away from battery packs 22 and motors 24.

[0068] FIGURE 4 is a diagrammatical top view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10 as shown in FIGURES 2A and 2B, showing a closed-loop coolant cycle for cooling of battery packs 22. A first closed-loop coolant cycle system 128 is coupled to first set 124 of battery pack 22 and motor 24, while a second closed-loop coolant cycle system 130 is coupled to second set 126 of battery pack 122 and motor 124. In certain exemplary embodiments, first and second systems 128 and 130 may circulate a liquid coolant, a gas, or a suitable refrigerant. For example, the liquid may include water, a water- antifreeze mixture, an oil, or another suitable liquid coolant. The gas may include an inert gas, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen, or another suitable gas. CO₂ is particularly eco-friendly as compared with typical refrigerants. The refrigerant may include a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), or another suitable refrigerant. For example, the refrigerant may include R- 12, R- 22, R- 134a, or Freon. In certain exemplary embodiments, the first and second systems 128 and 130 may include a vapor compression cycle system, such as a refrigeration cycle. A vapor compression cycle system may include a closed loop having a coolant circulating through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. However, first and second systems 128 and 130 may include a variety of closed-loop coolant cycles.

[0069] In certain exemplary embodiments, first system 128 includes a heat exchanger 132, a valve 134, and a pump 136 coupled to battery pack 22 in a closed loop via conduit 138. In operation, pump 136 drives a coolant through conduit 138, passages within or along battery pack 22, and passages within heat exchanger 132. The circulating coolant removes heat from battery pack 22, and heat exchanger removes the heat from the coolant into the air via the passing airflow 94. In certain exemplary embodiments, first system 128 or another independent cooling system may be coupled to motor 24. Second system 130 has a similar arrangement as first system 128. Second system 130 includes a heat exchanger 140, a valve 142, a pump 144, and conduit 146 coupling these components to battery pack 22. In operation, pump 144 circulates a coolant through battery pack 22 and heat exchanger 140 to cool battery pack 22 in the same manner as first system 128. In certain exemplary embodiments, second system 130 or another independent closed-loop coolant cycle system may be coupled to motor 24. In certain exemplary embodiments, fans also may be disposed adjacent heat exchangers 132 and 140 to provide forced convective heat transfer while vehicle 10 is not moving.

[0070] FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior of cockpit 14 of vehicle 10, showing contoured floor panel 32 extending over wheel well 96 and a riffle pattern on various interior panels for acoustic dampening. Contoured floor panel 32 includes integrated knee bolster zone 67, foot rest 40, base portion 42, incline portion 44, raised portion 46, and bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18. Integrated within raised portion 46, platform 60 includes a track system 160 having a protruding rail 162 with a slot 164. Contoured floor panel 32 has raised portion 46, seat platform 60, track system 160, and seat 54 disposed directly above wheel well 96 and wheel 26, thereby reducing space consumption, complexity, and a weight of cockpit 14. [0071] Track system 160 is disposed on a driver side and a passenger side of cockpit 14, such that seat 54 can be mounted without a conventional heavy seat frame and track structure. In certain exemplary embodiments, seat 54 may be disposed only on a driver side, while a passenger side track system 160 may support an optional passenger seat 54, a storage unit, or other equipment. Track system 160 slidingly supports seat bottom 56, such that an occupant can move seat bottom 56 toward and away from dashboard 66. Simultaneously, seat back 58 can rotate relative to seat bottom 56 to provide a desired incline. In certain exemplary embodiments, seat 54 also may have a simple recline function for seat back 58 to rotate independently from movement of seat bottom 56. Seat bottom 56 and seat back 58 may have a simple molded seat surface 166 and an opposite molded seat back 168. For example, molded seating surface 166 may be made of a lightweight foam material such as Styrofoam, while molded seat back 168 may be made of a lightweight rigid plastic or composite material. Molded seat back 168 includes a complimentary track mount that mates with integral track system 160 in contoured floor panel 32.

[0072] As shown in FIGURE 5, a riffle pattern is disposed on various interior panels and components to dampen acoustics within cockpit 14, while also enhancing rigidity with a lesser mass to reduce weight of vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiment, an acoustic dampening floor mat 170 is disposed over contoured floor panel 32. Floor mat 170 includes a riffle pattern 172 including a multitude of parallel grooves, ribs, or the like. Floor mat 170 may be separate or integrated with contoured floor panel 32. In certain exemplary embodiments, contoured floor panel 32 is a cast aluminum structure having riffle pattern 172 directly cast into foot rest 42 and base portion 42. Other exemplary embodiments of floor mat 170 include a separate lightweight sheet of material having riffle pattern 172. Contoured floor panel 32 also may include a center storage 174 integrated along with the other features.

[0073] Top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 and an overhead panel or headliner 176 may include a riffle pattern 178 identical or similar to riffle pattern 172. For example, riffle pattern 178 may include a multitude of ribs, grooves, or the like, which are configured to diffuse acoustics and enhance rigidity at a lesser mass. In certain exemplary embodiments, top portion 64 and overhead panel 176 are an integral cast aluminum structure having riffle pattern 178 directly cast with the shape of these components. In certain exemplary embodiments, riffle pattern 178 may be a separate panel adhered to top portion 64 and overhead panel 176. As discussed above with reference to FIGURE 2A, surfaces of contoured floor panel 32, top portion 64, and overhead panel 176 may exclude paint or other similar coatings to reduce weight, and may be hard anodized to provide corrosion and wear resistance. Top portion 64 also may be removable to provide easy access into cargo section 16, and may include a sliding window to provide viewing between cargo section 16 and cockpit 14.

[0074] Dashboard 66 and door 38 also may include a variety of features to reduce weight, space consumption, and modularity within cockpit 14. In certain exemplary embodiments, dashboard 66 has a Styrofoam body covered with a stretch fabric, a multitude of plug and play modules, a break-away top panel for deployment of an airbag, and a pull-out center stack 182. Pull-out center stack 182 can be withdrawn and retracted into dashboard 66 for selective access of various controls, storage, and the like. For example, center stack 182 may include radio controls, heating and air conditioning controls, an AC power connector, and so forth.

[0075] Door 38 also has a lightweight construction similar to other features within cockpit 14. For example, an exemplary embodiment of door 38 has a cast aluminum structure with a hard anodized surface. Door 38 also may support a lightweight armrest 184. In an exemplary embodiment, arm rest 184 has a Styrofoam body covered with a stretch fabric material, and armrest 184 has hooks that mate with receptacle in door 38.

[0076] FIGURE 6 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior of cockpit 14, showing features of contoured floor panel 32 and bulkhead 18. Contoured floor panel 32 includes integral base portion 42, incline portion 44, raised portion 46, lower portion 48, and lateral storage area 50 disposed between portions 46 and 48. In certain exemplary embodiments, contoured floor panel 32 also includes an integral center storage cavity 200, which enhances rigidity and functions as a base profile for a drop-in floor console module. On a driver side of cockpit 14, seat 54 is mounted to seat platform 60 via integral track system 160 as shown in FIGURE 5. [0077] Again, as discussed above with reference to FIGURE 5, seat 54 may have a simple lightweight construction without a conventional frame and track structure. In certain exemplary embodiments, seat 54 may be made entirely without ferrous metals or other heavy materials, relying on lightweight foams, fabrics, and composite materials. For example, seating surface 166 may be made with a lightweight Styrofoam material covered with a stretch fabric, while seatback 168 may be made with a multi-plastic or composite material.

[0078] Bulkhead 18 also may have a lightweight construction. In an exemplary embodiment, bulkhead 18 has an insulated multiple layer construction. For example, bulkhead 18 may be formed with a lightweight insulating material, such as Styrofoam, sandwiched between opposite aluminum panels. In one exemplary embodiment, bulkhead 18 may have a rigid outer shell injected with a lightweight insulation, e.g., Styrofoam core within an aluminum shell. Bulkhead 18 and contour floor panel 32 may exclude paint or other heavy coatings to reduce weight, while including a hard anodized surface to provide corrosion resistance and wear resistance. Bulkhead 18 is removable from contoured floor panel 32 at a joint 202. In certain exemplary embodiments, joint 202 may include a tongue and groove or other male/female connection to facilitate alignment and structural integrity. Joint 202 may be secured with latches, bolts, or other connectors. In one exemplary embodiment, joint 202 may include a hinge to enable bulkhead 18 to rotate away from cockpit 14 into cargo section 16. Bulkhead 18 also includes sliding window 180 for easy access between cargo section 16 and cockpit 14.

[0079] FIGURE 7 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior of cockpit 14, showing a center storage cavity 220 integrated with contoured floor panel 32. In certain exemplary embodiments, sections 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, and 62 of contoured floor panel 32 enhance rigidity and lateral strength against side impacts, while center storage cavity 220 enhances rigidity and strength against forward impacts. Cavity 220 includes an open portion 222 and a concealable portion 224 having an access door 226. Center storage cavity 220 enables vertical access directly into open portion 222 or indirectly into concealable portion 224 upon opening access door 226. Center storage cavity 220 also may function as a base profile for a drop-in floor console module.

[0080] In certain exemplary embodiments, access door 226 may be hingedly coupled to cavity 220 and open like a clam shell, or access door 226 may include a tambour door. For example, a tambour door may include a multitude of parallel strips, which slide along a curved path between an open position and a closed position. Concealable portion 224 with access door 226 may be a removable console module that can be replaced with a larger, smaller, or different type of console module.

[0081] In certain exemplary embodiments, contoured floor panel 32 integrates center storage cavity 220, foot rest 40, base portion 42, incline portion 44, raised portion 46, lower portion 48, bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18, and track system 160 as a single molded or cast structure. For example, an exemplary embodiment of contoured floor panel 32 is a cast aluminum structure with a hard anodized surface. Another exemplary embodiment of contoured floor panel 32 is a thermal molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt or another suitable recyclable polymer. A further exemplary embodiment of contoured floor panel 32 has a lightweight foam material, such as Styrofoam, injected into a rigid outer shell. Another exemplary embodiment of contoured floor panel 32 may be made from a recyclable bamboo composite material.

[0082] At joint 202, contoured floor panel 32 couples with top portion 64 of bulkhead 18. An enlarged portion 228 of portion 62 interlocks with a groove 230 of portion 64, while an enlarged portion 232 of portion 64 interlocks with a groove 234 of portion 62. Joint 202 also may include a multitude of latches, bolts, hinges, or other supports to removably secure bulkhead 18 to contoured floor panel 32. In certain exemplary embodiments, bulkhead 18 has a construction similar to contoured floor panel 32. For example, an exemplary embodiment of bulkhead 18 may be a cast aluminum structure with a hard anodized surface, or a thermal molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt or another suitable recyclable polymer. [0083] FIGURE 8 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior of cockpit 14, showing features of contoured floor panel 32 and bulkhead 18. Top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 includes an acoustic dampening texture 250, which may include a multitude of ridges, grooves, ripples, or other textures of raised and lowered features 252. Top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 functions as an insulated cabin divider, which is removable at joint 202 to provide access between cockpit 14 and cargo section 16. Top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 also includes integrated sliding cabin window 180.

[0084] In certain exemplary embodiments, bulkhead 18 has a lightweight construction, and is removable from contoured floor panel 32. For example, top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 may have an insulated multilayer construction, which includes one or more rigid layer adjacent one or more insulation layers. An exemplary embodiment of top portion 64 includes rigid panels dispose about a Styrofoam core. Another exemplary embodiment of top portion 64 of bulkhead 18 includes a rigid outer shell injection molded with an insulation material, such as a Styrofoam material.

[0085] Contoured floor panel 32 includes foot rest 40, base portion 42, incline portion 44, raised portion 46, lower portion 48, bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18, and track systems 160 on driver and passenger sides. Again, contoured floor panel 32 may be formed as a single cast aluminum structure with a hard anodized surface, a molded plastic or composite material (e.g., bamboo composite), a rigid shell having an insulative core, and so forth. Each of these constructions of contoured floor panel 32 may reduce weight and complexity within cockpit 14. The wavelike construction of contoured floor panel 32 also enhances rigidity and lateral strength against side impacts.

[0086] FIGURE 9 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of cockpit 14, showing a central longitudinal support structure 70 and a seat bracket 272 coupled to contoured floor panel 32. In certain exemplary embodiments, central longitudinal support structure 270 includes a pair of parallel trusses 274 and 276 extending lengthwise along cockpit 14 and laterally offset from one another to form a central storage space 278. For example, trusses 274 and 276 may be coupled to sections 40, 42, and 44 of contoured floor panel 32. Trusses 274 and 276 enhance rigidity and resistance against impact, while also providing central storage space 278 for a drop-in floor console module 280.

[0087] Seat bottom 56 couples to seat platform 60 on raised portion 46 of contoured floor panel 32, and is further supported by trust 276 and seat bracket 272. Seatback 58, in turn, couples to bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, seat bottom 56 couples to track system 160 {see FIGURE 5) on seat platform 60, while seatback 58 has a mount, such as a hook, that hangs from a portion of bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18. For example, seatback 58 may hang at joint 202 between bottom and top portions 62 and 64 of bulkhead 18.

[0088] In certain exemplary embodiments, contoured floor panel 32, trusses 274 and 276, and seat bracket 272 are all cast aluminum structures, which are subsequently coupled to one another via welding, screws, adhesive, or other suitable fasteners. However, exemplary embodiments of contoured floor panel 32, trusses 274 and 276, and seat brackets 272 may be made from a variety of similar or different plastics, composite materials (e.g., bamboo composite), multi-layer structures (e.g., aluminum and Styrofoam), and so forth. Drop-in floor console module 280 also may be made out of a variety of lightweight materials. In certain exemplary embodiments, console module 280 is made of a lightweight Styrofoam body having a stretch fabric exterior. Console module 280 also may be removable to reduce weight and provide additional storage area within cockpit 14.

[0089] FIGURE 10 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior of cockpit 14, showing a cantilever support system 290 and a rear portion (e.g., bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18) of cockpit 14. In certain exemplary embodiments, cantilever support system 290 includes a pair of central cantilevers 292 and 294 laterally offset from one another and extending lengthwise along cockpit 14 to define a central storage space 296. Cantilever 292 includes an upper portion 298 extending to a lower portion 300. Similarly, cantilever 294 includes an upper portion 302 extending to a lower portion 304. Central storage space 296 may house a removable storage unit 306, while lower portions 300 and 304 support storage unit 306 on central cantilevers 292 and 294. For example, storage unit 306 may include opposite lips 308 and 310, which hang or rest on the lower portions 300 and 304 of cantilevers 292 and 294, respectively.

[0090] Upper portions 298 and 302 of respective cantilevers 292 and 294 may be used as supports for driver and passenger side seat bottoms 56. For example, upper portion 302 of cantilever 294 is used in combination with a lateral cantilever 312 extending from a rear portion (e.g., bottom portion 62 of bulkhead 18) of cockpit 14. In one exemplary embodiment, seat bottom 56 is suspended between upper portion 302 of cantilever 294 and lateral cantilever 312. For example, seat bottom 56 may be made of a lightweight fabric material, which is secured only to cantilevers 294 and 312 and stretches to the contours of an occupant seated on the seat bottom 56. In certain exemplary embodiments, cantilevers 292, 294, and 312 may be cast aluminum structures with a hard anodized surface, while seat bottom 56 may be made from a high strength lightweight fabric material.

[0091] FIGURE 11 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior cockpit 14, showing a lightweight cross-car structure 320 with a multitude of integrated features. In certain exemplary embodiments, cross-car structure 320 is a single structure integrating dashboard 66, firewall 52, foot rest 40, and base portion 42. For example, cross-car structure 320 may be formed by extrusion, casting, molding, or the like. An extrusion process creates a constant cross-section of cross- car structure 320 extending between opposite sides 76 of vehicle 10. The material construction of cross-car structure 320 may include aluminum with a hard anodized surface or another suitable lightweight material.

[0092] A fabric covering may be disposed over an interior of cross-car structure 320. For example, fabric covering may include a stretch fabric wrapped about cross- car structure 320. In certain exemplary embodiments, cross car structure 320 includes a low density, low thermal transfer screen 322 covering all or part of dashboard 66. Screen 322 is configured to block direct sunlight and reduce thermal buildup inside cockpit 14. In turn, the reduced thermal buildup within cockpit 14 enables the air conditioning system to operate for shorter periods of time, thereby reducing wear on the air conditioning system, reducing the load on engine 20, and improving fuel efficiency of engine 20.

[0093] Cockpit 14 includes a configurable driver pod 324 that mounts to a left hand side or a right hand side of cross-car structure 320 to enable either a left hand driver configuration or a right hand driver configuration within cockpit 14. For example, configurable driver pod 324 may include a set of hooks and guides configured to hang from dashboard 66 of cross-car structure 320. Configurable driver pod 324 includes a contoured body 326, an instrument panel 328, a steering wheel 330, and a pedal assembly 332 having gas and brake pedals 334 and 336. In certain exemplary embodiments, contoured body 326 may be a lightweight structure, such as a cast aluminum body having a hard anodized surface, a molded Styrofoam body having a stretch fabric exterior, or another lightweight construction. Configurable driver pod 324 enables installation or rearrangement of instrument panel 328, steering wheel 330, and pedal assembly 332 as a unit or module. In an exemplary embodiment, pedal assembly 332 is secured to a rear portion 338 of contoured body 326 in a space 340 between contoured body 326 and cross-car structure 320. Linkages for instrument panel 328, steering wheel 330, and pedal assembly 332 may be gathered at a central connection region of configurable driver pod 324, thereby simplifying the routing of linkages from configurable driver pod 324 through cross- car structure 320 to engine compartment 30.

[0094] FIGURE 12 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an interior of cockpit 14, showing a hand control system 360 mounted on steering wheel 330. Hand control system 360 includes a central panel 362 and opposite left and right controls 364 and 366. Hand control system 360 may be configured to either rotate with or remain stationary relative to steering wheel 330. For example, center panel 362 may mount onto steering column, such that hand control system 360 remains in a fixed position during rotation of steering wheel 330. Left and right controls 364 and 366 may include shift controls for combustion engine 20 and one or more electric motors 24. For example, hand control system 360 may be coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) of combustion engine 20 and one or more electric motors 24 via electrical wires or communication cables.

[0095] In certain exemplary embodiments, configurable driver pod 324 is an integrated assembly including steering wheel 330, pedal assembly 332, and hand control system 360. Configurable driver pod 324 may be mounted to cross-car structure 320 on either a left hand or right hand side of cockpit 14. For example, configurable driver pod 324 may hang from or mount to dashboard 66. Instrument panel 328 may be separate from configurable drive pod 324, such that panel 328 mounts separately to a top side of dashboard 66. Cross-car structure 320 may have a construction as described above with reference to FIGURE 11. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, cross-car structure 320 may be an extruded or cast aluminum structure with a hard anodized surface. Dashboard 66 may include low density, low thermal transfer screen 322 to block sunlight and reduce thermal buildup within cockpit 14.

[0096] FIGURES 13, 14, and 15 are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle dashboard 66 for use in vehicle 10. FIGURE 13 is a perspective front view of vehicle dashboard 66 showing various plug and play modules disposed within receptacles in vehicle dashboard 66. In certain exemplary embodiments, vehicle dashboard 66 includes a top panel 380, a bottom panel 382, and a mid-panel 384 sandwiched between top and bottom panels 380 and 382. Top panel 380 includes an integral defroster vent 386. Mid-panel 384 includes integral receptacles configured to support various plug and play modules. Bottom panel 382 includes structural support configured to hold up dashboard 66.

[0097] Mid-panel 384 may support a variety of plug and play modules, such as a pair of vents 388 and 390, instrument gauges 392, a central display 394, a starter button 396, and pull-out center stack 182. In certain exemplary embodiments, vents 386, 388, and 390 couple with one or more air passages formed integrally within vehicle dashboard 66. Instrument gauges 392 may include a speedometer, a tachometer, a fuel gauge, an engine temperature gauge, a battery capacity gauge, or a variety of other gauges. Display 394 also may include a variety of controls and information. In certain exemplary embodiments, display 394 includes a touch screen with controls for a GPS navigation system, an audio/video entertainment system, air conditioning/heating, a rear vision camera, and the like. Starter button 396 may be coupled to combustion engine 20 for simple starting of engine 20.

[0098] Center stack 182 also may include a variety of controls and/or displays. For example, an exemplary embodiment of center stack 182 includes controls for an audio/video entertainment system, heating and air conditioning, and the like. Center stack 182 also includes a handle 398 to enable easy installation and removal of center stack 182 from a receptacle 400 in mid-panel 384. For example, center stack 182 may be retracted substantially within receptacle 400, such that only handle 398 remains exposed outside of mid-panel 384. Center stack 182 can later be extracted from receptacle 400 to enable use of the various controls. A user can also remove display 394 and center stack 182 for protection/security of these items while away from vehicle 10.

[0099] In certain exemplary embodiments, the various plug and play modules 386, 388, 390, 392, 394, and 182 may be replaced with other types of similar or different plug and play modules for customization of vehicle dashboard 66. For example, a digital gauge 392 may be replaced with an analog gauge 392. By further example, display 394 may be swapped out with a storage unit, an ash tray, a power receptacle, or some other different component. Mid-panel 384 includes an integrated storage compartment 402 concealed by an access flap 404 having a zipper 406.

[00100] In certain exemplary embodiments, vehicle dashboard 66 may be made with a plastic honeycomb structure (e.g., a milky-white semi-translucent plastic or polymer), an eco-friendly biodegradable composite material (e.g., a renewable bamboo mache composite), a molded Styrofoam covered with a stretch fabric, a thermal molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt or another suitable recyclable polymer, a multi-layered structure having a rigid layer (e.g., aluminum and an insulative layer (e.g., Styrofoam), and so forth. [00101] FIGURE 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of bottom panel 382 of vehicle dashboard 66 as shown in FIGURE 13, further showing an interior portion of bottom panel 382 facing mid-panel 384. In certain exemplary embodiments, bottom panel 382 has a multitude of support beams 410 coupled to a lightweight molded body 412, such as a molded Styrofoam body having a stretch fabric material wrapped about body 412. Beams 410 are configured to enhance rigidity and provide support for lightweight molded body 412, while also enabling easy installation of vehicle dashboard 66 within cockpit 14. In certain exemplary embodiments, beams 410 have an S-shaped profile configured to fit a contour of mid- panel 384 and hook into place within cockpit 14. For example, beams 410 may include a hook 414, which faces downward and is configured to hang bottom panel 182 from firewall 52 or a portion of contoured floor panel 32.

[00102] FIGURE 15 is a cross- sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle dashboard 66 as shown in FIGURES 13 and 14, showing various integrated receptacles, passageways, and features of panels 380, 382, and 384. Beams 410 may support the entire vehicle dashboard 66. In certain exemplary embodiments, beams 410 are cantilevered relative to hooks 414, which hang from firewall 52, contoured floor panel 32, or another interior portion of cockpit 14. Hooks 414 include a vertical slot 416 configured to engage an upright panel in a vertical direction. As shown in FIGURE 15, pull-out center stack 182 is retracted substantially into receptacle 400 within mid-panel 384. Again, a user can extract pull-out center stack 182 from receptacle 400 by pulling on handle 398. Above center stack 182, display 394 is removably mounted within a receptacle 418 integrally formed within mid-panel 384. Above mid-panel 384, top panel 380 includes an integral air tunnel 420 configured to pass an air conditioned airflow, a heated airflow, or an ambient vented airflow through vent 386. In certain exemplary embodiments, the top panel 380, body 412 of bottom panel 382, and mid-panel 384 may be formed by molding or casting a lightweight material to define the various integral plug and play receptacles, (e.g., 400 and 418) and air tunnels (e.g., 420). In one exemplary embodiment, panels 380, 382, and 384 have a molded Styrofoam core surrounded by a stretch fabric material. [00103] FIGURES 16 and 17 are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle dashboard 66, showing a pop-up configuration of top panel 380 for deployment of an airbag 420. The exemplary embodiment of FIGURES 16 and 17 may have a construction and features similar to FIGURES 13 through 15. FIGURE 16 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle dashboard 66, showing airbag 420 disposed between top panel 380 and mid-panel 384. Panels 380, 382, and 384 connect with one another to define vehicle dashboard 66 and various integrated receptacles, passages, and contoured geometries. Airbag 420 fits within a space 422 between top panel 380 and mid-panel 384.

[00104] Mid-panel 384 includes receptacles 424, 426, 428, 430, 432, 434, 436, and 438, which are configured to receive a multitude of plug and play components such as those discussed above with reference to FIGURES 13 through 15. For example, receptacles 424 and 438 may receive vents 388 and 390, receptacles 426 and 428 may receive instrument gauges 392, receptacles 430 and/or 432 may receive pull-out center stack 182, receptacle 434 may receive display 394, receptacle 436 may receive access flap 404 and zipper 406, or these receptacles 424 through 438 may receive a variety of other plug and play components. Mid-panel 384 includes a variety of features that mate with corresponding features of top panel 380. In an exemplary embodiment, mid-panel 384 includes contoured protrusions 440, 442, and 444, which mate with corresponding contoured receptacles 446, 448, and 450 in top panel 380. Receptacle 426 is partially defined by both top and mid-panels 380 and 384. However, in certain embodiments, any of receptacles 424 through 438 may be entirely defined in either top panel 380 or mid-panel 384, or the receptacles may be partially defined by both top and mid-panels 380 and 384.

[00105] Mid-panel 384 also may include a multitude of tongues or lips 452, 454, and 456, which are configured to removably mate with corresponding grooves or recesses 458, 460, and 462 in top panel 380. The interconnection between the tongues or lips 452, 454, and 456 with corresponding grooves or recesses 458, 460, and 462 defines a releasable tongue and groove connection, or a lip and recess connection, or a friction lock connection at a front side 464 of vehicle dashboard 66. At a rear side 466 of vehicle dashboard 66, top panel 380 may be configured to move relative to mid-panel 384 to enable deployment of airbag 420. In an exemplary embodiment, top panel 380 has a hinge 468, such as a living hinge, between a top portion 470 and a rear portion 472. For example, hinge 468 may include a slit or groove in top panel 380 between top portion 470 and rear portion 472. In certain exemplary embodiments, hinge 468 may include an in-molded break line, which releases and enables rotation about hinge 468 in response to sufficient force. In other words, top portion 470 and rear portion 472 may not be rotatable until the in-molded break line is severed in response to the sufficient force. In an exemplary embodiment, deployment of airbag 420 functions to provide the sufficient force to sever the in- molded break line, thereby enabling rotation about hinge 468 and forcing top portion 470 away from rear portion 472.

[00106] FIGURE 17 is a cross- sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle dashboard 66 as shown in FIGURE 16, showing deployment of airbag 420 from space 422 between top panel 380 and mid-panel 384. In this exemplary embodiment, bottom panel 382 is coupled to firewall 52 via hooks 414, which hang from a portion 474 of firewall 52. Bottom panel 382 supports top panel 380 and mid- panel 384, which house various plug and play components, airbag 420, and associated electrical wiring and the like.

[00107] In certain exemplary embodiments, actuation of airbag 420 biases top panel 380 away from mid-panel 384, thereby causing separation at front side 464 and rotation at rear side 466 of top panel 380 relative to mid-panel 384. In other words, top panel 380 and mid-panel 384 may define a clamshell type configuration, which is normally closed and opens in response to actuation of airbag 420. For example, an exemplary embodiment of top panel 380 may enable top portion 470 to rotate relative to rear portion 472 as airbag 420 actuates and creates sufficient force to sever the break line along hinge 468 between top and rear portions 470 and 472. Top portion 470 then rotates away from rear portion 472 upwardly toward windshield 36 (see FIGURE 2A), thereby enabling airbag 420 to expand between top panel 380 and mid- panel 384 through front side 464 outwardly toward an occupant in seat 54 (see FIGURE 2A). In certain exemplary embodiments, top panel 380 may completely break away from mid-panel 384 rather than merely rotating about hinge 468. [00108] Top panel 380, bottom panel 382, and mid-panel 384 may be constructed with a variety of lightweight materials to reduce overall weight and simplify construction of vehicle 10. For example, an exemplary embodiment of panels 380, 382, and 384 may have a lightweight Styrofoam core with a stretch fabric exterior, while beams 410 may be made of aluminum having a hard anodized exterior. However, these panels 380, 382, and 384 may be made with a variety of other lightweight materials. In certain exemplary embodiments, body 412 of bottom panel 382 may have an aluminum construction made separately or integrally with firewall 52. For example, contoured floor panel 32 as shown in FIGURES 2A, 2B, 5 through 9, 11, and 12 may include firewall 52 and body 412 all as a single integral structure. Whether bottom panel 382 is integral or separate from firewall 52, bottom panel 382 functions as a shelf-like support profile and an integral knee bolster zone 67 within cockpit 14 of vehicle 10.

[00109] FIGURE 18 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of overhead panel 176 as shown in FIGURE 5. In certain exemplary embodiments, overhead panel 176 may be made with an eco-friendly biodegradable composite material, such as a renewable bamboo mache composite, with riffle pattern 178. For example, overhead panel may be made with a bamboo fiber-reinforced plastic, a bamboo fiber- reinforced epoxy, a bamboo aluminum composite, a bamboo carbon composite, or another suitable bamboo composite. However, overhead panel 176 may be made with a variety of other lightweight materials, such as cast aluminum with a hard anodized surface, a molded Styrofoam with a stretch fabric wrap, a thermal molded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt or another suitable recyclable polymer, and so forth.

[00110] Riffle pattern 178, may include a multitude of ribs, grooves, or other raised and lowered geometries 490, which may enhance rigidity and diffuse acoustics within vehicle cockpit 14. For example, ribs 490 may extend crosswise between opposite sides 492 and 494 of overhead panel 176. In this manner, ribs 490 provide stiffness in the horizontal direction between opposite sides 492 and 494, while providing some flexibility in the vertical direction. [00111] Overhead panel 176 also includes straps 496 and 498, clothing hooks 500 and 502, visors 504 and 506, and overhead console 508. In certain exemplary embodiments, straps 496 and 498 are made of a lightweight material, such as nylon, and include screws 510 to simultaneously secure straps 496 and 498 and overhead panel 176 to the body of vehicle 10. Hooks 500 and 502, visors 504 and 506, and overhead console 508 also may include fasteners, which simultaneously secure these components along with the entire overhead panel 176 to the body of vehicle 10. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, each of these components 500, 502, 504, 506, and 508 may include screws, integral anchors, integral hooks, or integral latches formed as part of the components, or other suitable fasteners.

[00112] FIGURE 19 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of visor 506 as shown in FIGURE 18, further showing the lightweight construction of this component. In certain exemplary embodiments, visor 506 may be made of a lightweight material such as the same eco-friendly biodegradable composite material as overhead panel 176. For example, visor 506 may be made of a renewable bamboo mache composite, a cast aluminum having a hard anodized surface, a lightweight Styrofoam material having a stretch fabric exterior, or a lightweight plastic material. In certain exemplary embodiments, visor 506 has a honeycomb cross-section 520, which includes a multitude of longitudinal channels 522 extending through an interior and a multitude of longitudinal grooves 524 extending along an exterior. In one exemplary embodiment, visor 506 has honeycomb cross-section 520 made with a milky-white semi-translucent material, such as a biodegradable plastic or polymer material.

[00113] FIGURE 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of overhead console 508 as shown in FIGURE 18, further showing various lightweight and simplified features of this component. In an exemplary embodiment, overhead console 508 includes a rear view mirror 530 coupled to a base portion 532, which may include a dome lamp 534, a pair of task lights 536 and 538, and central controls 540. Dome lamp 534 may have a milky-white semi-translucent construction similar to visor 506 as discussed above with reference to FIGURE 20. Task lights 536 and 538 may include one or more LED lights configured to conserve energy within vehicle 10. Central controls 540 may include controls for dome lamp 534, task lights 536 and 538, audio/video controls, AC/heating controls, and so forth. In certain exemplary embodiments, controls 540 are integrated into a film coupled to overhead console. Base portion 532 may have a construction similar to visor 506 as shown in FIGURE 20. For example, base portion 532 may have honeycomb cross-section 520 made with a milky- white semi-translucent plastic or polymer material.

[00114] FIGURES 21 and 22 are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle door 38 as shown in FIGURE 5, further showing various feature to reduce weight, save space, and simplify construction of vehicle 10. FIGURE 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle door 38, showing angled window 68 as shown in FIGURES 2A and 5 and a lightweight door panel 550 surrounding angled window 68. Angled window 68 has a deep vertical profile for improved visibility and reach for an ergonomic advantage.

[00115] Door panel 550 may be made with a variety of lightweight materials having simplified features to reduce weight and save space within vehicle cockpit 14. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, door panel 550 may be made with aluminum having a hard anodized surface. Door panel 550 may include a riffle pattern 552 having a multitude of ribs, grooves, or other raised and lowered portions 554, which extend lengthwise between a front 556 and a rear 558 of door 38. Riffle pattern 552 is configured to diffuse acoustics and enhance rigidity, such that a lesser mass can be used to reduce weight.

[00116] Vehicle door 38 may include a door pull strap 560, which extends across a recess 562 in a manner generally flush with door panel 550. Door pull strap 560 may be made from a variety of lightweight materials, such as nylon. Thus, door pull strap 560 is both lightweight and saves space within the vehicle cockpit 14. Vehicle door 38 also may include a door handle/latch 564 disposed in a recess 566, such that latch 564 may be generally flush with door panel 550. Vehicle door 38 may include a decorative film 568 having integral controls/switch technology, such as controls 570 and 572. For example, exemplary embodiments of controls 570 and 572 may include side view mirror position controls, window controls, door lock/unlock controls, and so forth.

[00117] Vehicle door 38 may include a variety of integrated storage features, such as a zippable stretch fabric pocket 574, which may include a fabric access panel 576 coupled to door panel 550 via a zipper 578. Pocket 574 may include a recess within door panel 550 or pocket 574 may extend over a flat portion of door panel 550. In either case, pocket 574 may remain generally flush with door panel 550 when items are not being stored within pocket 574.

[00118] Vehicle door 38 may include an arm rest 580 having a lightweight and simplified construction. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, armrest 580 may be made with a molded lightweight Styrofoam material having a stretch fabric exterior, or armrest 580 may be made as a thermal molded PET felt armrest 580.

[00119] FIGURE 22 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of armrest 580 as shown in FIGURE 21, further showing mounting features for securing armrest 580 to door panel 550. In certain exemplary embodiments, arm rest 580 includes a hollow body or channel portion 582, which is disposed between an upper hook portion 584 and a lower securement portion 586. Upper hook portion 584 is configured to vertically engage and secure with a portion of door panel 550, such that arm rest 580 hangs from door panel 550. Lower securement portion 586 is configured to secure armrest 580 to door panel 550, such that upper hook portion 584 cannot be removed from door panel 550. For example, plastic screws or anchors 588 may extend through lower securement portion 586 into door panel 550, thereby blocking vertical movement of armrest 580 and its integral upper hook portion 584 out of engagement with door panel 550. Channel portion 582 may have a C-shaped cross-section, which may provide more cushion effect and less compression with a lesser amount of material for the construction. Again, an exemplary embodiment of arm rest 580 may be made with a thermal molded PET felt, although other lightweight materials may be used for the construction of armrest 580. [00120] FIGURE 23 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of seat 54, showing features configured to improve ergonomics within vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiments, seat bottom 56 and/or seat back 58 of seat 54 may have an asymmetrical configuration between opposite sides 600 and 602. For example, an exemplary embodiment of seat bottom 56 may include a bolster or tapered edge 604 at side 600, whereas opposite side 602 has a flat edge 606 without any bolster. Similarly, in certain exemplary embodiments, seat back 58 may include a bolster or tapered edge 608 at side 600, whereas opposite side 602 has a flat edge 610 without any bolster. In these exemplary embodiments, the bolsters or tapered edges 604 and/or 608 are located further inside cockpit 14 of vehicle 10 (e.g., inboard side), whereas flat edges 606 and/or 610 are located nearest the vehicle exit (e.g., outboard side or door 38. In this manner, an occupant of seat 54 obtains support by tapered edges 604 and 608 on side 600, while door 38 provides support on opposite side 602 while door is closed about cockpit 14. Upon opening door 38, flat edges 606 and 610 enable easier ingress and egress with vehicle 10.

[00121] In certain exemplary embodiments, seat 54 includes an asymmetrical front 612. For example, an exemplary embodiment of front 612 includes a regular nose 614 at side 600, whereas side 602 includes a rounded nose 616. For example, nose 616 may have a substantially greater curvature or radius of curvature as compared with nose 614. Again, rounded nose 616 may be disposed adjacent door 38, thereby enabling an occupant to more easily move into and out of the vehicle 10.

[00122] FIGURE 24 is a partial perspective view of an interior of vehicle cockpit 14, showing various integrated features and space saving features of vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiment, seat 54 may integrate various other features within cockpit 14, such as an integral center console 620 and/or integral gear shifter 622. For example, seat bottom 56 and integral center console 620 may be molded as a single structure, which includes the receptacle for gear shifter 622. By further example, seat bottom 56, seat back 58, and integral center console 620 may be formed from a lightweight Styrofoam material having a stretched fabric exterior, a thermal molded PET felt material, or another suitable lightweight material. [00123] In certain exemplary embodiments, cockpit 14 may include an organizational desktop 624 disposed adjacent driver seat 54 in a typical passenger seat area. For example, an exemplary embodiment of organizational desktop 624 may include a docking station 626 for a laptop 628, a modular file/safe unit 630 disposed in a storage docking station, and a variety of other organizational features. File/safe unit 630 may be configured to snap into bulkhead 18, such that safe unit 30 can be secured and removed from vehicle as desired.

[00124] FIGURE 25 is a partial perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle cockpit 14, further showing various organizational features that may be incorporated within cockpit 14 of vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiments, cockpit 14 includes an automotive office environment 640 disposed adjacent driver seat 54. For example, an exemplary embodiment of automotive environment 640 includes a desk or work surface 642, a vertical storage system 644, and a lateral storage system 646.

[00125] Desk 642 may include a multitude of storage receptacles or docking stations 648, beverage holders 650, a weekly planner/calendar 652, and a desktop storage surface 654. For example, desktop storage surface 654 may include a multitude of strap mounts 656, such that stretchable straps 658 can be used to secure an object 660 to desktop storage surface 654. Objects 660 may include a briefcase, a laptop computer, files, or any other object that fits on desktop storage surface 654. Certain exemplary embodiments of desk 642 may be retractable and expandable to save space within cockpit 14. For example, desk 642 may be rotatable between a vertical storage position and a horizontal use position.

[00126] Vertical storage system 644 provides deployable storage for use within automotive office environment 640. For example, an exemplary embodiment of vertical storage system 644 includes a retractable file system 662, which is compressible and retractable back to a vertical position within base 664. In the vertical position within base 664, retractable file system 662 can be locked in place to secure the various documents and conserve space within vehicle cockpit 14. In the horizontal position as shown in FIGURE 25, retractable file system 662 defines a vertical stack of document storage receptacles. Vertical storage system 644 also may provide a variety of other features, including a light 664 and an electrical strip 666.

[00127] Lateral storage system 646 provides a variety of horizontal storage solutions, such as a drawer 668. In certain exemplary embodiments, desk 642, vertical storage system 644, and lateral storage system 646 may be modular and removable units, which can be removed, replaced with other storage solutions, or generally installed depending on the desired automotive office environment 640, weight of vehicle 10, space within cockpit 14, and other similar considerations.

[00128] FIGURE 26 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an automotive utility assembly 680, which may be removably mounted within vehicle cockpit 14. For example, automotive utility assembly 680 may be removably mounted to seat platform 60, e.g., via track system 160, as shown in FIGURES 2A and 5-8. Automotive utility assembly 680 includes a deployable storage unit 682 disposed within a receptacle 684 of a base 686. In certain exemplary embodiments, base 686 may include a variety of components configured in a symmetrical arrangement, such that automotive utility assembly 680 can be used in both left hand and right hand drive vehicles. Base 686 includes a twelve volt DC power supply 688, a 110 volt AC power supply 290, a beverage holder 692, and various other features.

[00129] FIGURES 27, 28, and 29 are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of a deployable cushion utility 700 for use within cockpit 14 of vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiments, deployable cushion utility 700 may be mounted on seat platform 60, e.g., via track system 160, as shown in FIGURES 2A and 5 through 8. However, deployable cushion utility 700 may be mounted with a variety of mounting techniques at various locations within cockpit 14. An exemplary embodiment of deployable cushion utility 700 is shown in a stowed or closed position in FIGURE 27, whereas an open or deployed position is shown in FIGURES 28 and 29. Referring generally to FIGURES 27 through 29, certain exemplary embodiments of deployable cushion utility 700 include a base 702, a cushion 704, and a multitude of rotatable members or linkages 706, 708, and 710 coupling cushion 704 to base 702. [00130] As shown in FIGURES 28 and 29, linkages 706, 708, and 710 rotate away from base 702 as indicated by reference numeral 712, and cushion 704 translates along linkage 708 as indicated by reference numeral 714. In certain exemplary embodiments, deployable cushion utility 700 is mounted within cockpit 14 next to driver seat 54, such that utility 700 opens away from driver seat 56 laterally across vehicle 10. In turn, cushion 704 translates toward and away from driver seat 54 to provide an arm rest for an occupant of driver seat 54. In this manner, deployable cushion utility 700 enables height adjustment and lateral adjustment of cushion 704 next to driver seat 54. Deployable cushion utility 700 may include a variety of storage features, such as storage cavity 716, beverage holders 718, and storage regions 720. Deployable cushion utility 700 provides multiple functions all in one unit, thereby saving space within cockpit 14 of vehicle 10. Deployable cushion utility 700 may be made from a variety of lightweight materials, such as those described in detail above with reference to FIGURE 2A.

[00131] FIGURE 30 is a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10, showing various space saving features of cargo section 16. In certain exemplary embodiments, roof 34 includes an extended roof cap 740 and floor panel 74 has dropped central floor panel 90 to provide a greater vertical clearance 742 within cargo section 16. Roof 34 extends from opposite sides 76 upwardly in a curved manner toward extended roof cap 740. Floor panels 74 includes raised side floor panels 92 disposed on opposite sides of dropped central floor panel 90, thereby defining nested central storage area 88. On opposite sides 76, batteries 22 and electric motors 24 are mounted below raised floor panels 92 (e.g., in ducts), and are configured to drive rear wheels 28. In this manner, the side mounting of batteries 22 and motors 24 saves space in the central region of cargo section 16, thereby providing the dropped central floor panel 90 and the nested central storage area 88. In certain exemplary embodiments, cargo section 16 includes lateral storage areas 744 and 746 on opposite sides 76 of vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiments, walls or sides 76 of vehicle 10 may be formed from aluminum sheathing with a foam core, e.g., a Styrofoam core. The foam and aluminum composite provides rigidity and reduced weight. [00132] FIGURE 31 is a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10, showing construction of roof 34, opposite sides 76, and floor panel 74. In certain exemplary embodiments, roof 34 and sides 76 may have a lightweight construction, such as a lightweight foam material that is sandwiched between rigid panels. For example, one exemplary embodiment of roof 34 and sides 76 is a Styrofoam core disposed between aluminum panels. The sandwich configuration is configured to reduce weight and provide improved rigidity in roof 34 and sides 76.

[00133] Storage cabinets 760 and 762 may be mounted directly to opposite sides 76 within cargo section 16. In this manner, storage cabinet 760 and 762 may be provided without redundant walls, thereby reducing weight of vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiments, storage cabinets 760 and 762 include a multitude of bins 759 between a multitude of vertical frame supports 761, which suspend horizontal cables 763 in tension between supports 761 to hold bins 759. For example, vertical frame supports 761 may be located at a front and a rear of cargo section 16, while horizontal cables 763 extend lengthwise along cargo section 16 between front and rear vertical frame supports 761. Horizontal cables 763 define horizontal supports for cargo bins 759, which may rest entirely on top of horizontal cables 763 or hang from horizontal cables 763. For example, cargo bins 759 may include opposite hook portions configured to hang from adjacent horizontal cables 763. In certain exemplary embodiments, vertical frame supports 761 may an integral part of sides 76 of vehicle 10. For example, sides 76 may be aluminum panels, which include vertical frame supports 761. Horizontal cables 763 may be made of metal, nylon, or a suitable lightweight material with sufficient strength to hold up bins 759 and cargo within bins 759.

[00134] Floor panel 74 also may have unique features to improve cooling of batteries 22 and/or motors 24. For example, one exemplary embodiment of floor panel 74 includes a multitude of longitudinal cooling fins 764, which extend along an underside of floor panel 74 lengthwise along vehicle 10. Batteries 22 and motors 24 may be disposed in thermal communication with fins 764, thereby improving heat dissipation by forced convective heat transfer away from batteries 22 and motors 24. In certain exemplary embodiments, fins 764 may be used along with a closed-loop coolant cycle system (e.g., a vapor compression cycle system), such that a coolant may be cooled by the fins 764. For example, one exemplary embodiment of fins 764 may be used as part of heat exchanges 132 and 140 as shown in FIGURE 4.

[00135] FIGURE 32 is a rear cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10, showing various storage features within cargo section 16. In certain exemplary embodiments, opposite sides 76 of vehicle 10 include top and bottom access panels 84 and 86, which rotate between open and closed positions to provide access to storage cabinets 760 and 762. For example, top access panel 84 may rotate upwardly away from the respective side 76 as indicated by reference numeral 770, whereas bottom access panel 86 may rotate downwardly away from side 76 as indicated by reference numeral 772. In other words, access panels 84 and 86 open in opposite direction away from one another, and close in opposite directions toward one another in the exemplary embodiment of FIGURE 32. Access panels 84 and 86 may provide easier access to items stored within cabinets 760 and 762, for example, in lower headroom applications. Top access panel 84 may function as an awning-like structure to provide some protection from weather, such as sun, rain, snow, and so forth. Bottom access panel 86 may serve as a work surface, e.g., a desk-type surface. In one exemplary embodiment, top access panel 84 may be larger than bottom access panel 86, such that top access panel 84 provides a greater overhead coverage (e.g., sun, rain, or snow protection) over the user while standing next to bottom access panel 86.

[00136] In certain exemplary embodiments, cabinets 760 and 762 are vertically offset from floor panels 74, thereby defining a vertical clearance 774. As a result, vertical clearance 774 enables storage of items between storage cabinets 760 and 762 and floor panels 774 across a full width 776 between opposite sides 76. In certain exemplary embodiments, a horizontal support 778 may be mounted above dropped central floor panel 90 in general alignment with raised floor panels 92, thereby providing vertical support across full width 776 of cargo section 16.

[00137] In certain exemplary embodiments, vehicle 10 may include various structural beams 780 and 782 disposed inside vehicle 10, for example, along an interior of roof 34. Structural beams 780 and 782 not only provide structural support for vehicle 10, but these beams 780 and 782 may provide anchoring or mounting points for holding up cabinets 760 and 762 within cargo section 16. Structural beams 780 and 782 may be made with a lightweight material, such as aluminum having a hard anodized surface, to reduce weight within vehicle 10. In certain exemplary embodiments, roof 34 may include an integrated storage receptacle 784, which may be used to store a variety of items such as a ladder 786.

[00138] FIGURES 33, 34, and 35 are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of cargo section 16 of vehicle 10, showing an airplane-like aluminum frame structure 800 of cargo section 16. In certain exemplary embodiments, frame structure 800 includes skeletal walls 802 and 804 having a multitude of vertical structural beams 806, horizontal structural beams 808, and horizontal ribs 810. Beams 806 and 808 have generally rectangular tubular cross-sections, whereas ribs 810 have a generally cylindrical tubular cross-section. However, these beams 806 and 808 and ribs 810 may have a variety of different geometries and configurations to define skeletal walls 802 and 804.

[00139] In certain exemplary embodiments, one or both of skeletal walls 802 and 804 may include side access 82 to a cargo space 812 within cargo section 16. For example, skeletal wall 802 includes side access 82 having top and bottom access panels 84 and 86. Top and bottom access panels 84 and 86 may open and close in opposite directions from one another, such that access panels 84 and 86 either converge or diverge relative to one another. For example, one exemplary embodiment of access panels 84 and 86 may include tambour doors having tubular reinforcement, such as horizontal ribs 814 and 816.

[00140] Skeletal walls 802 and 804 also may include a multitude of interior mount receptacle 818 and a lightweight exterior skin 820. For example, an exemplary embodiment of interior mount receptacles 818 includes a pair of opposing arcuate receptacle 822 and 824. Mount receptacles 118 may be used as anchor points for mounting interior storage cabinets, tie down points for rope, hook points for bungee cords, or the like. For example, a rope may pass through receptacle 822 and out through receptacles 824, such that the rope can be run continuously through a multitude of interior mount receptacles 818 for tying down various goods within cargo space 812. Mount receptacles 818 also may be disposed on various other interior panels within cargo section 16. For example, certain exemplary embodiments of cargo section 16 include mount receptacles 818 located on bulkhead 18, floor panels 74, and roof 34.

[00141] FIGURE 34 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of mount receptacle 818, showing a bungee cord 826 having a hook 828 disposed within arcuate receptacle 822. However, mount receptacles 818 may be used as a universal interlock for a variety of different ropes, cords, tie downs, and mounting equipment within cargo section 16. For example, storage cabinets within cargo space 812 may include mounting hooks, which extend into and hang from a horizontal bar 830 disposed between opposing arcuate receptacles 822 and 824.

[00142] Lightweight exterior skin 820 may be made with a variety of lightweight materials and constructions, such as extruded aluminum or plastic panels having ribs. For example, FIGURE 35 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of lightweight exterior skin 820 showing an extruded honeycomb pattern or cross- section 832. Pattern 832 includes a multitude of internal longitudinal channels 834 and exterior longitudinal grooves and/or ribs 836. In certain exemplary embodiments, lightweight exterior skin 820 is made of aluminum with a hard anodized surface, a lightweight plastic material, or the like. For example, lightweight exterior skin 820 may have a composition similar to visor 506 as described above with reference to FIGURE 20.

[00143] Turning to FIGURE 33, frame structure 800 of cargo section 16 may include a riffle pattern 838 on bulkhead 18 and floor panel 74. For example, riffle pattern 838 may include a multitude of parallel ribs, grooves, or various raised and lowered portions on top and bottom portions 62 and 64 of bulkhead 18 and floor panel 74. Riffle pattern 838 is configured to enhance rigidity and provide acoustic dampening within cargo section 16. [00144] In certain exemplary embodiments, as mentioned above with reference to FIGURE 2A, a portion of bulkhead 18 may be removable to enable easy access between cargo section 16 and cockpit 14. For example, bulkhead 18 may be configured such that top portion 62 is removable and bottom portion is fixed relative to cargo section 16. In one exemplary embodiment, bulkhead 18 includes a multitude of lockdown mechanisms or latches 840, which are operable to release and secure removable top portion 64 relative to fixed bottom portion 62 and skeletal walls 802 and 804. For example, latches 840 may be rotated between latched and released positions of an internal latching mechanism, such as a hook, a snap feature, a translating pin, or the like. In certain exemplary embodiments, similar latches 840 also may be incorporated into bottom portions 62 of bulkhead 18, such that both top and bottom portions 62 and 64 may be removed independently or collectively from cargo section 16.

[00145] Floor panel 74 may include a variety of features to facilitate serviceability of batteries 22, electric motors 24, and various other serviceable components within vehicle 10. For example, one exemplary embodiment of floor panel 74 includes removable access panels 842, which may be disposed above a pair of batteries 22 and a pair of electric motors 24. Access panels 842 may be secured to floor panel 74 via screws, bolts, quick release latches, or merely weight of access panels 842 disposed within fitted receptacles in floor panel 74. In certain exemplary embodiments, floor panel 74 may include one or more quick service access panels 844, which may include quick access for servicing coolant, oil, fuel, or the like. For example, quick service access panel 844 may include an oil cap 846 and a coolant cap 848.

[00146] FIGURE 36 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10, showing an exchangeable roof cap system 860 and a sidewall daylight opening (DLO). Exchangeable roof cap system 860 may include a multitude of different roof caps, such as a low profile roof cap 864 and an extended roof cap 866, which can be exchanged with one another and mounted into a roof cap receptacle 868 along roof 34. Exchangeable roof cap system 860 also may include a multitude of quick release connectors or latches, thereby enabling a quick and simple replacement of one roof cap with another. In certain exemplary embodiments, exchangeable roof caps, e.g., 864 and 866, may include different vertical clearances, different storage solutions, and different material constructions. For example, the exchangeable roof caps may include an exterior luggage rack, ladder receptacle 784 as shown in FIGURE 32, interior structural beams 780 as shown in FIGURE 32, and so forth. The different roof caps also may have different material constructions, such as an aluminum construction, a translucent plastic construction, a bamboo composite construction, and so forth.

[00147] In certain exemplary embodiments, sidewall DLO 862 is disposed on opposite sides 76 of vehicle 10, and extends from angled windows 68 to a rear end 870 of vehicle 10. Sidewall DLO 862 may be transparent or translucent, such that daylight can enter into vehicle 10 through opposite sides 76 rather than roof 34 of vehicle 10. The side mounting of DLO 862 is configured to reduce heat generation within vehicle 10 typically associated with skylights or sunroofs mounted overhead on roof 34. In certain exemplary embodiments, sidewall DLO 862 includes an integral air cooling system configured to vent heat.

[00148] FIGURE 37 is a cross- sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of sidewall DLO 862 as shown in FIGURE 36, further showing an integral cooling system through sidewall DLO 862. In certain exemplary embodiments, sidewall DLO 862 includes a longitudinal air cooling channel 872 and an upward air cooling channel 874. Air cooling channels 872 and 874 are generally defined between interior panel 876 and exterior panel 878. In certain exemplary embodiments, interior panel 876 includes an interior window 880, and exterior panel 878 includes an exterior window 882. Windows 880 and 882 are generally opposite from one another to define longitudinal air cooling channel 872. For example, with reference to FIGURE 36, longitudinal air cooling channel 872 and windows 880 and 882 may extend lengthwise along the vehicle 10 between angled window 68 and rear end 870. In certain exemplary embodiments, air enters longitudinal cooling channel 872 adjacent angled window 68, and flows lengthwise along vehicle 10 toward rear end 870, thereby providing forced air cooling between windows 880 and 882. In certain exemplary embodiments, upward air cooling channel 874 directs the airflow upwardly toward roof 34. However, sidewall DLO 862 may direct the airflow out of longitudinal air cooling channel 872 at rear end 870, out through upward air cooling channel 874 as indicated by reference numeral 884, or a combination thereof. In certain exemplary embodiments, sidewall DLO 862 may include a multitude of fins configured to enhance forced convective cooling of sidewall DLO 862.

[00149] FIGURE 38 is a perspective view of exemplary embodiment of vehicle 10, showing angled window 68, rear access 72, and side access 82. In certain exemplary embodiments, rear access 72 and side access 82 include one or more tambour doors, which move upward, or downward, or laterally, or a combination thereof. For example, an exemplary embodiment of rear access 72 includes top and bottom access panels 78 and 80, which open and close in opposite vertical direction relative to one another. Similarly, an exemplary embodiment of side access 82 includes top and bottom access panels 84 and 86, which open and close in opposite vertical directions relative to one another. In certain exemplary embodiments, access doors 78, 80, 84, and 86 include tambour doors, which include a multitude of horizontal strips 900 vertically stacked one over another. Horizontal strips 900 are configured to provide rigidity in a horizontal direction while providing flexibility in a vertical direction. Thus, the tambour doors can flex about a curved path, as the tambour doors slide between open and closed positions relative to vehicle 10. Access panels 78, 80, 84, and 86 may be made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum, plastic, or the like. The split of rear access 72 into top and bottom access panels 78 and 80 is configured to enable independent access to either top or bottom halves of cargo section 16. Similarly, the split of side access 82 into top and bottom access panels 84 and 86 is configured to enable independent access to either top or bottom halves of cargo section 16. In this manner, rear access 72 and side access 82 may provide more versatile access to cargo section 16.

[00150] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components or the two components and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature.

[00151] While only certain features and embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, many modifications and changes may occur to those skilled in the art (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters (e.g., temperatures, pressures, etc.), mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re- sequenced according to alternative embodiments. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention. Furthermore, in an effort to provide a concise description of the exemplary embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not have been described (i.e., those unrelated to the presently contemplated best mode of carrying out the invention, or those unrelated to enabling the claimed invention). It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation specific decisions may be made. Such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure, without undue experimentation.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An electric vehicle, comprising: a first battery configured to power a first electric motor; a second battery configured to power a second electric motor; and a cargo space separating the first battery from the second battery.

2. The electric vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first battery is located on a driver side, the second battery is located on a passenger side, and the cargo space is located centrally between the driver side and the passenger side.

3. The electric vehicle of claim 1, comprising a floor panel having a first raised side panel over the first battery, a second raised side panel over the second battery, and a dropped central floor panel between the first and second batteries.

4. The electric vehicle of claim 1, comprising a first air duct having a first airflow path configured to cool the first battery, and a second air duct having a second airflow path configured to cool the second battery.

5. The electric vehicle of claim 4, wherein the first air duct extends lengthwise along a driver side from a first front wheel well toward a first rear wheel well, and the second air duct extends lengthwise along a passenger side from a second front wheel well toward a second rear wheel well.

6. The electric vehicle of claim 4, wherein the first air duct routes the first airflow path directly about the first battery, and the second air duct routes the second airflow path directly about the second battery.

7. The electric vehicle of claim 4, wherein the first air duct routes the first airflow path through a first heat exchanger having a first closed-coolant loop coupled to the first battery, and the second air duct routes the second airflow path through a second heat exchanger having a second closed-coolant loop coupled to the second battery.

8. The electric vehicle of claim 4, comprising a floor panel supporting the first and second batteries, wherein the floor panel comprises a plurality of cooling fins.

9. The electric vehicle of claim 1, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

10. An electric vehicle, comprising: a cargo section comprising a skeletal wall disposed about an interior cargo space, wherein the skeletal wall comprises a plurality of beams without an interior covering in the interior cargo space, and the beams comprise horizontal beams and vertical beams coupled to one another.

11. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the skeletal wall comprises aluminum, a composite, or another lightweight material.

12. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the beams comprise a plurality of integral mounts.

13. The electric vehicle of claim 12, wherein the integral mounts each comprise a pair of opposite arcuate receptacles offset from one another by a bar.

14. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the skeletal wall comprises a top access panel and a bottom access panel, and the top and bottom access panels open and close in opposite directions relative to one another.

15. The electric vehicle of claim 14, wherein the top access panel comprises a top tambour door, and the bottom access panel comprises a bottom tambour door.

16. The electric vehicle of claim 10, comprising an exterior skin coupled to the skeletal wall, wherein the exterior skin comprises an extruded honeycomb cross- section having a plurality of internal longitudinal channels.

17. The electric vehicle of claim 16, wherein the exterior skin is made of a translucent plastic.

18. The electric vehicle of claim 10, comprising a removable bulkhead located between the interior cargo space and a cockpit.

19. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

20. An electric vehicle, comprising: a lightweight panel comprising a riffle pattern configured to enhance rigidity, reduce mass, and diffuse acoustics.

21. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the lightweight panel comprises a floor panel having the riffle pattern.

22. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the lightweight panel comprises a bulkhead having the riffle pattern.

23. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the lightweight panel comprises an overhead panel having the riffle pattern.

24. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the lightweight panel comprises a door panel having the riffle pattern.

25. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the riffle pattern comprises a plurality of longitudinal ribs or grooves in parallel with one another.

26. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the lightweight panel is made of aluminum.

27. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the lightweight panel is made of a bamboo composite.

28. The electric vehicle of claim 20, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

29. An electric vehicle, comprising: an interior panel made of a bamboo composite.

30. The electric vehicle of claim 29, wherein the interior panel comprises an overhead panel.

31. The electric vehicle of claim 29, wherein the interior panel comprises a riffle pattern integrally formed in the bamboo composite, and the riffle pattern is configured to enhance rigidity, reduce mass, and diffuse acoustics.

32. The electric vehicle of claim 29, wherein the bamboo composite is not covered by a liner.

33. The electric vehicle of claim 29, comprising a visor coupled to the overhead panel, wherein the visor comprises an extruded honeycomb cross-section having a plurality of internal longitudinal channels.

34. The electric vehicle of claim 29, comprising an overhead console coupled to the overhead panel, wherein the overhead console comprises a film having integrated controls.

35. The electric vehicle of claim 29, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

36. An electric vehicle, comprising: a body having an interior space; an access opening into the interior space; and a pair of access panels disposed one over another across the access opening, wherein the access panels are configured to open and close in opposite directions relative to one another.

37. The electric vehicle of claim 36, wherein the access panels comprise top and bottom rotatable panels configured to rotate toward and away from one another.

38. The electric vehicle of claim 36, wherein the access panels comprise top and bottom tambour doors configured to slide toward and away from one another.

39. The electric vehicle of claim 36, wherein the pair of access panels is disposed along at least one of a driver sidewall or a passenger sidewall.

40. The electric vehicle of claim 36, wherein the pair of access panels is disposed along a rear wall.

41. The electric vehicle of claim 36, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

42. An electric vehicle, comprising: a cockpit comprising an automotive office environment.

43. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the automotive office environment comprises a desk having a work surface and storage receptacles.

44. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the automotive office environment comprises a retractable file system.

45. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the automotive office environment comprises a laptop docking station.

46. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the automotive office environment comprises a storage docking station configured to removably secure at least one of a module file unit or a modular safe unit.

47. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the automotive office environment comprises an automotive utility assembly having a base and a deployable storage unit.

48. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the automotive office environment comprises a deployable cushion utility configured to move crosswise in the cockpit between a stowed position away from a seat and an open position toward the seat.

49. The electric vehicle of claim 42, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

50. An electric vehicle, comprising: a seat comprising a surface that extends from a seat bottom to a gear shifter, wherein the surface integrates the gear shifter.

51. An electric vehicle, comprising: a seat comprising a seating surface that is asymmetric between an inboard side and an outboard side of a cockpit.

52. The electric vehicle of claim 51, wherein the seating surface extends from a seat bottom to a gear shifter, wherein the surface integrates the gear shifter.

53. The electric vehicle of claim 51, wherein the seating surface comprises a bolster on the inboard side and a flat surface on the outboard side.

54. The electric vehicle of claim 51, wherein the seating surface is disposed on at least one of a seat bottom or a seat back of the seat.

55. The electric vehicle of claim 51, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

56. An electric vehicle, comprising: a sidewall daylight opening (DLO) comprising an air cooling passage extending between opposite windows in a sidewall.

57. The electric vehicle of claim 56, wherein the sidewall DLO extends lengthwise along the sidewall between a cockpit and a rear end of the electric vehicle.

58. The electric vehicle of claim 56, wherein the sidewall DLO comprises a longitudinal air cooling path and an upward air cooling path.

59. The electric vehicle of claim 56, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

60. An electric vehicle, comprising: a roof comprising a swappable roof cap mounted removably in a roof cap receptacle.

61. The electric vehicle of claim 60, comprising a plurality of swappable roof caps including a low profile roof cap and an extended height roof cap.

62. The electric vehicle of claim 60, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

63. An electric vehicle, comprising: a vehicle door having an armrest, wherein the arm rest comprises a C-shaped cross-section made of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) felt.

64. The electric vehicle of claim 63, wherein vehicle door comprises an aluminum panel having a riffle pattern, a film with integrated controls, and a zippable stretch fabric pocket.

65. The electric vehicle of claim 63, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

66. An electric vehicle, comprising: a contoured floor panel comprising a raised portion having an integral seat platform with an integral track system.

67. The electric vehicle of claim 66, wherein the contoured floor panel comprises a lateral storage space below the raised portion.

68. The electric vehicle of claim 66, wherein the contoured floor panel extends over a wheel well, and the raised portion with the integral seat platform is directly above the wheel well.

69. The electric vehicle of claim 66, wherein the contoured floor panel comprises an integral bulkhead.

70. The electric vehicle of claim 69, wherein the integral bulkhead comprises a bottom portion of a bulkhead, and a top portion of the bulkhead is removable from the bottom portion.

71. The electric vehicle of claim 66, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

72. An electric vehicle, comprising: a vehicle dashboard, comprising: a body comprising a top panel; and an airbag disposed below the top panel, wherein the top panel is configured to at least partially move upward to deploy the airbag.

73. The electric vehicle of claim 72, wherein the top panel is configured to rotate upwardly in response to expansion of the airbag.

74. The electric vehicle of claim 72, wherein the body comprises a Styrofoam body that is covered with a lightweight stretch fabric.

75. The electric vehicle of claim 72, wherein the body comprises the top panel, a mid-panel, and a bottom panel, wherein the airbag is disposed between the top panel and the mid-panel, and wherein the top panel is configured to break away from the mid-panel to deploy the airbag.

76. The electric vehicle of claim 75, comprising a plurality of beams coupled to the bottom panel, wherein each beam includes a hook mount.

77. The electric vehicle of claim 72, comprising a pull-out center stack unit configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position relative to a receptacle in the body, wherein the pull-out center stack unit comprises a plurality of controls accessible in the extended position.

78. The electric vehicle of claim 72, wherein the electric vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).