Design is Context

18/10/2023

In an automotive landscape that often feels like a Rococo mess, Tesla’s new Cybertruck stands out like a Bauhaus masterpiece. But does this indicate a new era of car design with safer and cleaner vehicles, or does it make cars even worse for the environment?

Current design approaches and a new guy on the block 

Many cars these days seem like visual chaos, a Rococo mix with zero art direction. They don’t follow a clear design philosophy, making it hard to evaluate their impact on safety and usability. Now, there comes something different: The Tesla Cybertruck. Unlike traditional SUVs, the Cybertruck’s design is refreshingly unique and lauded for its functional aesthetic. 

However, its very design could make it more hazardous in urban settings. It is a vehicle that has received over 1.8 million pre-orders globally, but concerns are being raised about its safety. Its design is criticised for potentially increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident, which lacks standard safety features like crumple zones. Critics argue that its ‘indestructible’ nature may be bad news.

Statistically, SUVs offer their occupants a 65% higher chance of surviving a crash.
But these fortresses on wheels are anything but safe for pedestrians or cyclists, increasing the death toll 3 times when involved in accidents. 

SUVs and similar vehicles don’t just put pedestrians and cyclists at risk; they also pose dangers for occupants of smaller vehicles.

The Cyber truck is like a tank in a playground. While these vehicles may be well-suited for rural areas, their bulk and design make them extremely dangerous in cities or areas with limited space or traffic. 

A call for contextual design

First, as designers, we are responsible for the outcome of our work. We cannot say we’re merely doing what’s asked of us. Our role starts at the earliest stages of design, and we have the power to guide how a product is built through holistic research.

Besides, once bad things are already designed, we should help to introduce policies or technologies to mitigate or avoid these risks for now and the future. As we live in limited space and overpopulation, urban planning tailored for increasing vehicle sizes is not the solution. 

SUVs and Tesla’s Cybertruck may offer a safe haven for those inside, but they become a Trojan horse when introduced into the wrong environment. Our focus should be on contextual design that enhances safety for everyone involved.

Designing something or your vehicle choice is more than a personal decision; it’s a societal one. As we embrace beauty in design, let’s not forget the importance of context. Design should not just be aesthetically pleasing; it should also be safe and sustainable for all.

Some of the data facts are from this SPIEGEL article.