FAQs
IAT works with the private sector and utilizes engineering students for cost-effective product development. Teams of engineering students nationwide generate prototype BUV designs and participate in annual BUV Design Competitions. More than thirty universities have participated including Auburn, Purdue, Marquette, Michigan, Missouri, John Brown, University of Cincinatti, University of Dayton, Miami University, SUNY, University of Northern Arizona, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, and Northern Illinois University.
Target consumers will be small business owners with incomes less than $4000 per year. Target countries are those in Africa and Latin America that are within 2000 miles of the equator. BUVs are best suited for warm climates because BUVs are open-air vehicles. Flat or rolling hill topography is preferred because the economical engine has limited power. BUVs are designed for low-traffic, rural applications.
Small manufacturers in impoverished areas will use the designs and will access them at www.drivebuv.org The website’s purpose is to encourage collaboration and technology sharing. The Technology Transfer Package will help small businesses bypass the costly product development process. By removing R&D from the product cost, IAT allows small manufacturers in Africa and beyond a way to quickly enter the motor-vehicle business with low investment.
What is IAT's role in the BUV development process?
IAT researches the need and feasibility of BUVs, mobilizes university involvement through the Annual BUV Competition (8 years running), and promotes the vehicle to a variety of stakeholders. IAT is a non-profit organization with headquarters in Indianapolis. IAT partners with aid agencies and mission organizations whenever possible. IAT leverages the skills of many volunteers around the world to pursue its goals at very low cost.
IAT is funded by individuals, foundations, churches, and international corporations. Targeted corporations include those that extract resources from developing nations and those companies that can directly benefit from BUV sales (i.e. manufacturers of small engines, auto parts, and petroleum products).
How do corporate sponsors benefit?
Sponsors have an opportunity to make a tax-deductible contribution that could indirectly help create new markets for their products. Furthermore, this goodwill endeavor can attract national and sometimes international publicity by helping the less fortunate. Sponsors also benefits from the involvement of college students (both via PR and employment).
What are some of the attributes of the BUV?
The design theme is simple, durable, and functional. BUVs are designed around the following specifications (partial list):
| Cost: | $3300 base in USA, less if built in Africa or Central America |
| Payload: | 1200 lbs |
| Speed: | 20 mph (governed) |
| Weight: | 1100 lb (3-wheel version) |
| Engine: | 10 hp - 13 hp (gas or optional diesel) |
| Maximize: | number of unassembled kits that fit in 20' ocean container |
| Minimize: | total cost of ownership, custom designed parts, part count |
| Parts Excluded: | doors, body panels, glass, trim, gauges, hydraulics, radiator, heater, AC |
What is the work plan for the BUV?
| 2009 | Launch two BUV factories in Africa |
| 2010 | Build / license 500th BUV to serve the poor, widows, or orphans. |
What are the most common BUV applications?
- medical vehicle
- farm vehicle carrying farm inputs / outputs
- construction vehicle for churches, clinics, schools
- water distribution or water purification
- school bus for children
Eight assembled BUVs can fit in one 40' ocean container, or 14 crated units (nested halves), or 60 separately packed front BUV kits can be sent in a 20' ocean containers.
Full shipments reduce freight / theft costs, and enhance consistency during customs. The entire container is placed on to a large truck and delivered to the BUV factory. Over time, local sourcing occurs and more jobs are created. Each assembler/dealer assembles, sells, and services BUVs.
