Medurs

Background

This master’s thesis project addressed the challenges of safe and independent mobility for elderly drivers within an ageing society. Rising life expectancy and declining fertility rates have contributed to a rapidly growing senior population. At the same time, many older adults experience reduced mobility and increased social isolation, both of which are associated with declines in mental health, autonomy, and overall quality of life. Independent transportation therefore plays a critical role in supporting dignity, social participation, and wellbeing in later life.

Method

To collect qualitative feedback and validate early assumptions, a full-scale cockpit mock-up was constructed using wooden pallets, cardboard, and wood. The prototype was developed to test key functions related to elderly users, with a particular focus on ergonomics, reachability, and ingress–egress behaviour. Through physical interaction with the mock-up, insights were gathered regarding comfort, accessibility, and user movement within the vehicle interior. The findings from this phase informed the continued design process, which progressed into iterative sketching and detailed 3D modelling.

Result

Medurs, derived from the Swedish word meaning “clockwise,” represents movement, guidance, and independence. The final result is an inclusive near-future car interior concept designed to support elderly users while remaining appealing to younger generations. The concept focuses on safe and intuitive interaction through accessible ingress and egress, ergonomic seating, and supportive assistive features. Key solutions include an upward-opening door, a rotating seat, a repositionable seatbelt buckle, and a steering wheel that remains visible to maintain the user’s sense of control, while folding only during entry and exit to improve accessibility.