In view of the increasing volume of traffic and high air pollution, micro electric vehicles of the micromobility class, which are used for the first and last mile in both urban and rural areas, represent a great opportunity. The use of textiles is trend-setting in this context: by saving the overall mass, fuel efficiency can be improved for longer range and, in the case of freight transport vehicles, a higher payload is possible. In addition to the expected lower mass, another advantage of textiles in exterior applications is seen as the possibility of functionalization by means of sensors and actuators. The flexibility of the cover material and a new, unfamiliar feel also create potential as a novel design element.
