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The thesis, in the field of design, focuses on driving ergonomics and sustainable design of an electric motorbike.

Technology Industries of Finland Centennial Foundation has awarded Ville Piippo, a master's student in Aalto University's Collaborative and Industrial Design program, with the Metex Award for best thesis. 

“I explore how the design of electric motorcycles can differ from traditional internal combustion bikes, when design can be based on the desired user experience, highlighting the benefits of an electric powertrain,” says Piippo.

According to Piippo, the role of the designer in designing a vehicle can easily be underestimated, if they are unable to participate in the technical discussion of the product.

"My job is to show that it is crucial to take the user into consideration at every stage when designing the vehicle, so that the new powertrain solutions can reap the full benefits for the user."

Piippo also hints in his thesis that his discoveries can be utilized by, for example, a young vehicle manufacturer who wants to establish itself firmly in the market and outperform its larger competitors.

“The work has been done and presented clearly and is a well-thought-out structure. In his work, Ville Piippo has approached not only design but also engineering and commercial approaches. This is very close to the idea behind the prize, which is to support the interactive application of different disciplines in the final thesis in the spirit of Aalto University,” explains Jussi Neuvo, chairman of the jury.

Technology Industries of Finland Centennial Foundation awards an annual Metex Prize of 5 000 euros for a top-level thesis that has been produced in partnership with a technology company or directly or indirectly contributes to the importance and use of design and art in technology companies.

Metex Prize nominees