UPJ and Industry Collaboration Present Sustainable MSME Mobility Solutions

Bintaro, South Tangerang, 20/01/2024 - Universitas Pembangunan Jaya (UPJ), in partnership with Spora EV, MIMO, and Homi Commerce, proudly launched an innovative project: an electric vehicle designed specifically to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Named Electric Cargo Bar Burger, this vehicle offers an environmentally friendly mobility solution, empowering MSMEs like mobile burger sellers to access strategic locations without compromising business efficiency and branding.  

This project emerged from the collaborative efforts of students from UPJ's Product Design and Information Systems Study Program, under the guidance of Ismail Alif Siregar, S.Sn., M.A.. Kemal Putralaksmana, one of the students involved, emphasized the ergonomic and space-efficient design of the Electric Cargo Bar Burger. "We aim to ensure this vehicle is both functional and visually appealing, supporting MSMEs in their operations and enhancing their market branding," Kemal stated.  

Designed as a kitchen on wheels, this vehicle enables business owners to transport a complete kitchen setup for on-site cooking. Despite being lightweight, the vehicle is robust and equipped with micro-mobility technology, allowing it to navigate narrow or hard-to-reach areas that conventional vehicles cannot.  

H. Mohammad Iqbal, SST. Par., Founder & CEO of Barapi Group, highlighted the relevance of this design to his business, Barburger by Barapi. "The 'chef on the go' concept perfectly aligns with our vision. This Electric Cargo Bar Burger not only functions as a vehicle but also serves as a mobile storefront, ensuring the quality of our gourmet burgers reaches consumers," he remarked.  

Ismail Alif Siregar, S.Sn., M.A., a UPJ Product Design lecturer, explained that the project focuses on technological innovation and sustainability. "We aim for students to apply design to address real-world challenges. Through this vehicle, we hope to aid MSMEs' growth while reducing the carbon footprint in urban areas," he explained.  

Continuing the success of a prior collaboration between UPJ and Spora EV in 2021, which developed an electric bicycle for traveling meatball vendors, this project incorporates various design and technological enhancements to provide a more sophisticated and efficient solution.  

The success of the Electric Cargo Bar Burger demonstrates that innovative design can significantly contribute to the advancement of MSMEs. This vehicle not only serves as transportation but also as an adaptable business platform for urban communities. With a focus on mobility, efficiency, and sustainability, this collaboration is expected to unlock new opportunities for MSMEs in Indonesia. 

"This collaboration is proof that good design can significantly impact society. We are optimistic that solutions like this will inspire the development of other electric vehicles," concluded Ismail Alif Siregar.