Ponti Design Studio has created a concept for an autonomous, double-decker tram with a radial interior design to encourage Hong Kong residents to safely return to public transport after the height of the coronavirus pandemic.The product-design firm – founded by Hong Kong-based, Italian-born designer Andrea Ponti ? wanted to offer a modern take on existing public transport to better suit it to a post-Covid-19 world, where prevention of future pandemics is key.

“This is especially important in the densely populated city of Hong Kong, where social distancing is hard to achieve,” said Ponti. The electric tram concept, called Island, aims to persuade people to move from private forms of transportation to public ones, which have become less favoured in light of the coronavirus outbreak.
By incorporating electric and driverless technology ? negating the space needed for an engine and driver – there is more space in the interior of the tram, making it easier for passengers to social distance. Passengers would sit in a radial pattern on “islands” positioned along the centre of each floor inside the vehicle, facing outwards in order to avoid breathing in the direction of other travellers.

Bar-like wooden counters line the perimeter of each storey, and feature handrails to enable passengers to stand and enjoy the passing views while travelling.

The wooden accents and warm tones incorporated in ...