WO2025213257A1

WO2025213257A1 - Versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2025213257A1
Application number: PCT/CA2025/050509
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ali Kazemkhani
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-04-10
Filing date: 2025-04-08
Publication date: 2025-10-16
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-10

Abstract

A versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle includes a chassis having a substantially flat deck and an in-built compartment for housing battery module(s). The vehicle includes a steering assembly with a steering column configured to be selectively used in a first, second, or third configuration. The vehicle further comprises a relatively flat suspension system, and attachment provisions provided on and around the chassis for removably attaching attachment(s) to transform the vehicle into useful vehicle type(s). The chassis allows mounting of seat(s) in multiple seating configurations. Each of the four wheels is motor-controlled and coupled to the chassis to support the chassis for rolling on a surface using a pair of control arms. The chassis structure includes a top elongated wall, a bottom elongated wall, and first and second elongated side walls, interconnected using at least four T-slot profiles located at the corners, each including tracks for mounting.

Description

VERSATILE, MODULAR, AND STACKABLE FOUR-WHEELED MOBILE

PLATFORM VEHICLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to electric vehicles in general and more particularly, to a versatile, modular, and stackable 4-wheeled electric mobile platform vehicle (also referred to as “Utility Personal Transporter (UPT)”) transformable into one or more useful vehicle types such as but not limited to an ATV/UTV, a car, a micro truck, or other work vehicles for carrying out different works to meet needs of a user. Additionally, the present disclosure relates to chassis platforms for electric vehicles and more particularly, to a versatile chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde for use with an electrically powered vehicle, which can increase the degree of freedom in design changes to the vehicle, reduce manufacturing cost and time, provide a safe, waterproof, dustproof solution for housing battery modules and other electronics associated with the electric vehicle.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In and around us different kinds of dedicated vehicles do exist for patrolling and recreational uses, golfing, adaptive mobility, urban commuting, moving loads from one location to another, farm uses, and various other outdoor uses such as snow plowing, and lawn mowing. However, owning one or other such vehicles just fulfills some specific needs of a vehicle owner.

[0003] Vehicles used for transportation, maneuvering in and around the city, delivery of goods, and other outdoor uses have taken many different forms in recent years. These vehicles are often dictated by the environment and context of use. Typically, trucks, vans, and other large, motorized vehicles have large cargo areas for carrying loads but they must stay on roads and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow city streets. Further, small carts, trolleys, and hand trucks can assist with short-distance movement and deliveries of smaller loads. Further, typical carts, trolleys, and hand trucks are manually pushed or pulled and have a limited practical travel distance, goods-carrying capability, and limited travel speed.

[0004] Further, during disasters and emergencies, normal protocols for the operation of society and the infrastructure of a community usually become challenged. Time is of the essence in providing quick relief by carrying out rescue operations, and delivering timely different goods/products (Eg. food, medications). Deploying large numbers of trucks, relief vans, etc may be highly difficult in such disaster-hit areas. Further, the road conditions may be highly challenging for the conventional vehicles to deliver the relief on time at such locations. The availability of the conventional trucks, and relief vans in larger numbers at needed times may be challenging in itself.

[0005] Typically, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a small open single-rider vehicle having four wheels and generally designed for off-road use on various types of terrain or rough ground. These vehicles travel on low-pressure tires, with a seat that is straddled by the operator, along with motorcycle-like handlebars for steering control. Likewise, a utility task vehicle (UTV) is a slightly larger four-wheel drive vehicle that usually has a conventional steering wheel and provides seating for 2 or 4 people in a side-by-side arrangement. UTVs often have small truck beds and, as a result, are popular among golf course maintenance personnel, parks and recreation departments, and any other users who need to travel over uneven terrain with people and materials. A typical ATV/UTV is usually powered by an internal combustion engine that runs on gasoline or other suitable fuel (e.g. propane, diesel fuel, etc.) The ATV’s/UTV’s engine is usually coupled to a pair of rear-drive wheels via the engine's drive shaft and an intermediate transmission. Some ATVs/UTVs even include a wheel drive system. Due to the ever-increasing demand to use ATVs as work vehicles, various implements have been designed to convert ATVs into more useful vehicles, such as lawnmowers, log splitters, snowplowers, etc. However, these implements/attachments normally come with significant drawbacks in that duplicate engines need to be needed to run the separate implements that may or may not be pulled by the ATV, which is very costly and needlessly weighs down the ATV. Conventional implements are custom installed and are cumbersome and time-consuming to utilize in that they are required to be bolted onto the ATV engine and have to be completely unbolted and disassembled to operate the ATV in a normal function when not using the implement.

[0006] In general, an electric vehicle refers to a vehicle that uses electricity as power and other electronics. Electricity is made available using portable battery modules located in the vehicles. In other words, electric vehicles acquire driving energy by rotating a motor with electricity supplied through battery modules. The electric vehicles are eco-friendly and can be operated at low operation cost, and thus have an advantage in an economic aspect. Thus, electric vehicles are gaining popularity over fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Such electric vehicles usually have a structure in which one or more batteries and heat-dissipating electronics are safely installed at the bottom of the body of the vehicle, and a front wheel chassis module and a rear wheel chassis module, on which wheels of the vehicle are installed, are also installed at the bottom of the body of the vehicle.

[0007] Traditionally, when the body’s shape of such a vehicle needs to be changed or a vehicle requires length or width extension or requires external attachments to be added to the vehicle body or chassis for various purposes, the designs of the battery modules require changes or structure housing the batteries, electronics require changes, the front wheel chassis module and the rear wheel chassis module, which are mounted on the body of the vehicle, need to be changed as well. Further, the addition of external attachments to the body, and chassis of the vehicle involves CNC machining, cutting, welding, drilling holes, and so on which requires the use of a lot of tools to handle changes.

[0008] Extruded profdes of light metals such as Aluminium are gaining increasing popularity in addition to forged chassis structures for electric vehicles. When chassis components such as suspension arms of extruded profdes with closed or open cross sections are involved, and the addition of external components to the chassis is required, the state of art chassis structures (made of extruded profdes) do not provide any flexibility in terms of changing length or width of the chassis structure or to add external components. Further, Chassis structures of known extruded profdes usually have cross sections that must be dimensioned over their entire length to suit the stiffness-critical section, even though this section normally constitutes only a small portion of the overall length of the structure. Thus, the extruded profdes are manufactured with a cross-sectional geometry whose entire length is dimensioned to cope with an expected maximum load. Excess material that does not contribute to the stiffness and strength behaviours of the chassis structure is normally stripped mechanically to reduce the weight of the chassis structure. This requires additional expensive measures for machining the chassis structures and also for recovery and use of produced light metal scrap.

[0009] The chassis platform is the most important part of an electric vehicle especially a 4-wheeled electric vehicle such as an ATV/UTV, a car, a micro truck, or other vehicle. To meet the performance requirements of the automotive market dominated by electric vehicles, the design of electric vehicles is required to be lightweight, durable, and versatile. In addition to the battery, the chassis of the electric vehicle carries a considerable amount of weight. Specifically, the traditionally used chassis for electric vehicles is made of heavy metals. They are of fixed shape or size and are appropriately bent, welded, and CNC machined to gain the desired shape. The manufacturing time and cost of such a chassis is usually higher. Further, it is impossible for such electrical vehicles using such fixed length and width chassis structures to be upgraded in terms of length and width or attach external components thereto (such as footsteps, fender support, and front and rear bumper brackets).

[0010] Further, the extruded chassis structures known in the art are conventional metallic solutions made using molding, CNC machining, cutting, and drilling activities in a fixed length and they do not offer watertight and airtight sealing for the electronics components usually mounted inside those chassis structures, thereby risking the durability of the product and triggering the frequent failure of the vehicles employing such chassis structure.

[0011] The inventor herein has come up with a versatile, multi-purpose 4-wheeler micro-electric vehicle or a UPT that can be easily transformed into one or more useful vehicle types for carrying out different works such as but not limited to an ATV, a UTV, a micro car, a golf cart, a club cart, an electric wheel barrel, an electric dumper, and a micro truck or other work vehicles to meet various needs of a user. Further, the proposed 4-wheeled electric vehicle is stackable and is therefore well suited for storage, shipment, and delivery to the scene of an emergency or disaster.

[0012] In addition, the inventor herein has come up with a noval, versatile chassis structure for use with electric vehicles, which provides freedom of design changes to the electrical vehicle, reduces manufacturing cost and time, provides a safe, waterproof, dustproof solution for housing battery modules, and other electronics related to electric vehicles.

SUMMARY

[0013] Accordingly, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle that is sturdy, lightweight, and ideal for search and rescue missions, animal farm surveillance, eco-tours, urban commuting, load carrying, and recreational uses.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a versatile, modular, and stackable mobile platform vehicle with four traction-controlled wheels, each wheel controlled by an individual motor. The traction-controlled wheels provide optimum stability and safety, climbing power, and towing capacity. The in-wheel motors offer better braking and stability experience. [0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a versatile, modular, and stackable mobile platform vehicle that does not require any transmission parts (such as an internal combustion engine running on fuel), thereby decreasing the overall cost and weight of the vehicle.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a versatile, modular, and stackable mobile platform vehicle that’s powered by at least one battery module. The use of modular batteries facilitates in power capacity upgradation, and battery replacement in case batteries need to be replaced or power needs upgradation.

[0017] It is a further object of the present disclosure to provide a versatile chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde made of preferably a light metal. Further, the proposed chassis structure is important given its potential for lightweight construction of an electric vehicle with the ability to support enough weight and be strong enough to protect its occupants in case of a crash and rigid enough to resist torsional vibration which is the twisting force on the chassis due to loading and road conditions.

[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a versatile chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde that does not require any welding process for connecting any kind of vehicle-related components and attachments.

[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde that has a less massive cross-sectional configuration compared to forged counterparts currently in use in different vehicles.

[0020] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde that’s able to carry heavy battery packs safely, and other electronics safely inside and is lightweight to provide better performance and efficiency to the electric vehicle.

[0021] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde that allows easy conversion of a 4-wheeled electric mobile platform vehicle (also referred to as UPT) into one or more useful vehicle types such as but not limited to an ATV/UTV, a car, a micro truck, or other work vehicles for carrying out different works to meet needs of a user. The conversion from one vehicle type to another vehicle type is made easy by the proposed extruded chassis structure. The proposed chassis structure allows various vehicle-related components and attachments to fasten or be removed to and from the chassis structure. This also makes the proposed chassis structure versatile using which a vehicle can be easily converted (or change the vehicle design) from one vehicle type to another vehicle type for carrying out search and rescue missions, animal farm surveillance, eco-tours, urban commuting, load carrying, recreational uses, and so on.

[0022] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profile that would help in changing the wheelbase length of the chassis structure used in an electric vehicle using simple tooling.

[0023] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profile that’s waterproof and airproof to safely house the electronics, motor controllers, batteries, and other components related to the electric vehicle.

[0024] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profile that allows multiple similar chassis structures to interconnect sidewise or lengthwise to create a chassis structure of any length and width. Further, the chassis structure of the proposed disclosure can be interconnected with the partial section of the same chassis structure.

[0025] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle or utility personal transporter (UPT), comprising: a chassis comprising a substantially flat deck with a top surface, and a plurality of flat suspension systems, the chassis further comprises an in-built compartment for housing at least one battery module therein, and wherein the chassis allows mounting of at least one seat in a plurality of seating configurations; a steering assembly comprising a steering column, and a handlebar mounted on the steering column, wherein the steering column is configured to be selectively used in a first configuration, a second configuration, or a third configuration, and wherein the handlebar is positionable at least at a centreline of the chassis, or to a left side of the chassis of the vehicle; one or more attachment provisions provided on and around the chassis for removably attaching one or more attachments thereon, wherein the one or more attachments when coupled to the one or more attachment provisions provided on and around the vehicle transforms the vehicle into one or more useful vehicle types; and wherein, each of the four wheels comprises an in-wheel motor and is motor-controlled, and coupled to the chassis to support the chassis for rolling on a surface using a pair of control arms.

[0026] In some embodiments, the vehicle may further comprises a cover for covering the in-built compartment holding the at least one battery module.

[0027] In some embodiments, the chassis may be substantially cuboidal in shape.

[0028] In some embodiments, the chassis may be configured such that the wheelbase of the vehicle can be varied.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one battery module may comprise up to eight battery modules.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first configuration may allow the steering column to be tilted at a predefined angle for a seated position ride of the vehicle, the second configuration allows the steering column to be oriented straight at 90 degrees with respect to the chassis for a standing position ride of the vehicle and the third configuration allows the steering column to be completely folded for storage or stackability of the vehicle.

[0031] In some embodiments, the handlebar may be mounted on the steering column using a carriage slidable along a rail internally mounted within the steering column, or wherein the handlebar is mounted on the steering column using at least a chain and sprocket, a belt and pulley system, and a shaft-to-shaft transmission assembly.

[0032] In some embodiments, the steering assembly may be removably mounted on an upper control arm of the pair of control arms coupled to the chassis of the vehicle.

[0033] In some embodiments, the suspension system may be connected to a control arm of the pair of control arms using a first bracket at its first end and to a second bracket positioned inside and substantially at the centreline of the chassis.

[0034] In some embodiments, the suspension system may be configured near each of the four wheels substantially in a horizontal orientation.

[0035] In some embodiments, each of the suspension systems may be configured to connect the two front wheels together and the two rear wheels together to facilitate tilt steering in the vehicle substantially similar to that offered by an in-line two-wheeled vehicle. [0036] In some embodiments, the steering column may be height adjustable, and may comprise a plurality of U-joints, and a plurality of shafts operationally connected to a third bracket which in turn is connected to a tie rod for transferring the steering motion to the wheels; and the steering column may be configured to operate in the first configuration, and/or the third configuration at a pivotal connection.

[0037] In some embodiments, a shaft of the plurality of shafts may be selectively slidable into a barrel for adjusting the height of the steering column; and a shaft of the plurality of shafts may be angularly oriented and operationally connected to the carriage for moving the carriage along the rail within the steering column.

[0038] In some embodiments, the pivotal connection may selectively align with a U- joint of the plurality of U-joints to tilt the steering column at the predefined angle for seated position ride of the vehicle or completely folded for storage or stackability of the vehicle.

[0039] In some embodiments, the one or more attachment provisions may be provided in the form of at least slots, and/or rails to facilitate attachment of the one or more attachments using one or more fasteners.

[0040] In some embodiments, the one or more attachments may be selected from a group of attachments consisting of at least one seat, at least one bumper, one or more fenders for front and rear uses, one or more footsteps, at least one container, a snowplow, a micro car body, a lawn or field mower, and a stretcher.

[0041] In some embodiments, the one or more attachments may be at least foldable and/or removable to facilitate in folding and stacking of the vehicle.

[0042] In some embodiments, the one or more useful vehicle types may be selected from a group of vehicles consisting of an ATV, a UTV, a micro car, a golf cart, a club cart, an electric wheel barrel, an electric dumper, and a micro truck.

[0043] In some embodiments, the plurality of seating configurations may comprise at least a side-by-side configuration, a tandem configuration, bench like seating configuration, a lower seating configuration, a saddle seat configuration.

[0044] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an extruded chassis structure for an electric platform vehicle, comprising: a top elongated wall arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a bottom elongated wall; a first elongated side wall arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a second elongated side wall; wherein, the top wall, the bottom wall, and the first and second side walls are interconnected using at least four T-slot profiles, each located at a comer of the extruded chassis structure; wherein, a first end and a second end of the extruded chassis structure are covered by a front end cap, and a rear end cap forming an enclosed space there inside, wherein the front end cap and the rear end cap provides torsional stiffness against bending to the extruded chassis structure; and wherein each of the T-slot profiles comprises at least one track to facilitate mounting one or more vehicle- related attachments to the extruded chassis structure.

[0045] In some embodiments, the enclosed space may embody an enclosure for housing one or more battery modules there inside.

[0046] In some embodiments, the one or more vehicle-related components may be selected from a group of components consisting of a steering assembly, suspension systems.

[0047] In some embodiments, the enclosure may be waterproof.

[0048] In some embodiments, the enclosure may be made waterproof by a front separator, and a rear separator that seals the enclosure from the front end and rear end, the bottom elongated wall that seals the enclosure from the bottom, and a cover configured to allow accessibility to the one or more battery modules housed within the enclosure.

[0049] In some embodiments, the top elongated wall may comprise the cover configured to allow accessibility to the one or more battery modules housed within the enclosure formed within the enclosed space of the extruded chassis structure.

[0050] In some embodiments, the enclosure of the enclosed space of the extruded chassis structure may house one or more controllers and other electronics positioned adjacent to the first and second side walls of the extruded chassis structure to facilitate effective heat dissipation to the first and second side walls of the extruded chassis structure.

[0051] In some embodiments, two of the at least four T-slot profiles, each connecting the top elongated wall to the first and second side walls may comprise a lip extending therefrom acting as a support for mounting the cover thereon. [0052] In some embodiments, the extruded chassis structure may further comprise a gasket placed on the lip and one or more fasteners to removably couple the cover over the lip.

[0053] In some embodiments, each of the first elongated side wall and the second elongated side wall may comprise a first opening, and a second opening to facilitate configuration of the suspension systems for the electric mobile platform vehicle.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first opening, and/or the second opening may facilitate changing the wheelbase length of the extruded chassis structure by moving corresponding pair of control arms along the at least one track of the T-slot profiles.

[0055] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforcing member may be configured for at least mounting one or more frame extenders, mounting the suspension systems for the electric mobile platform vehicle, supporting the one or more battery modules configured within the enclosure, acting as impact and scratch guard for the bottom elongated wall, acting as mud and water channels.

[0056] In some embodiments, the extruded chassis structure may be quadrilateral shaped.

[0057] In some embodiments, the extruded chassis structure may be made of a light metal.

[0058] In some embodiments, the extruded chassis may further comprise at least one reinforcing member configured underside at least one of: the top elongated wall, and the bottom elongated wall to reinforce the top elongated wall and the bottom elongated wall enhancing their rigidity.

[0059] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforcing member may be a C channel extending along the length of the extruded chassis structure.

[0060] In some embodiments, the at least one reinforcing member may be internally threaded and adapted for connecting the front end cap, and the rear end cap at the first end and the second end of the extruded chassis structure.

[0061] In some embodiments, each of the T-slot profiles may comprise a void opening for at least providing torsional stiffness to the extruded chassis structure, a safe passage for cables and brake lines of the electric mobile platform vehicle, torsional stiffness to the at least one track of the T-slot profiles.

[0062] In some embodiments, four wheels of the electric platform vehicle may be connected to the extruded chassis structure on the side walls utilizing respective pair of control arms which are connected to the at least one track of the T-slot profiles in proximity to the first and second openings.

[0063] In some embodiments, the at least one track may comprise three longitudinal solid-walled sides, and a longitudinal slot for passage of a fastener for connecting one or more vehicle-related attachments to the extruded chassis structure.

[0064] In some embodiments, the front end cap, and the rear end cap may comprise one or more attachment provisions to mount the front end cap, and the rear end cap at the first end and the second end of the extruded chassis structure by connecting the front end cap, and the rear end cap using one or more fasteners that engages the at least one threaded reinforcing member.

[0065] In some embodiments, the one or more attachment provisions may be slots.

[0066] In some embodiments, the one or more attachment provisions may be used for connecting one or more attachments utilizing the one or more fasteners, thereby not requiring any welding.

[0067] In some embodiments, the one or more attachment provisions may comprise at least a front bumper, a rear bumper, one or more fenders for front and rear, a container for carrying loads, a snowplows for snow removal, a micro car body for urban commuting, a stretcher for emergency evacuation, a lawn mower for agricultural, one or more seats, one or more footsteps, one or more racks, one or more additional extruded chassis structures to increase the width of the extruded chassis structure.

[0068] Various embodiments of the present disclosure describe a versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle. The vehicle includes a chassis comprising a substantially flat deck with a top surface, the chassis further comprises an in-built compartment for housing at least one battery module therein. The chassis is preferably cuboidal in shape according to an embodiment. [0069] In an embodiment, the vehicle further includes a steering assembly comprising a steering column and a handlebar mounted on the steering column. The steering column is configured to be selectively used in a first configuration, a second configuration, or a third configuration, and the handlebar is positionable at least at a centreline of the chassis, or to the left side of the chassis of the vehicle. The steering column is height adjustable. The first configuration allows the steering column to be tilted at a predefined angle for a seated position ride of the vehicle, the second configuration allows the steering column to be oriented straight at 90 degrees with respect to the chassis for a standing position ride of the vehicle and the third configuration allows the steering column to be completely folded for storage or stackability of the vehicle.

[0070] In an embodiment, the handlebar is mounted on the steering column using a carriage slidable along a rail internally mounted within the steering column.

[0071] In an embodiment, the steering column of the vehicle comprises a plurality of U-joints, and a plurality of shafts operationally connected to a third bracket which in turn is connected to a tie rod for transferring the steering motion to the wheels. A shaft of the plurality of shafts is selectively slidable into a barrel for adjusting the height of the steering column. A shaft of the plurality of shafts is angularly oriented and operationally connected to the carriage for moving the carriage along the rail within the steering column.

[0072] In an embodiment, the steering column is configured to operate in the first configuration, and/or the third configuration at a pivotal connection.

[0073] In an embodiment, the vehicle further includes a relatively flat suspension system comprising a shock absorber and a coil spring wound around the shock absorber. The suspension system is configured near each of the four wheels substantially in a horizontal orientation. The suspension system is connected to a control arm of the pair of control arms using a first bracket at its first end and to a second bracket positioned inside and substantially at the centreline of the chassis. The flat suspension system provides higher off-road /on-road capability to the proposed vehicle. The flat suspension system comprises a double wishbone with 120mm travel.

[0074] In an embodiment, the vehicle further includes one or more attachment provisions or points provided on and around the chassis for removably attaching one or more attachments thereon. The one or more attachment provisions are provided in the form of slots, and/or rails to facilitate attachment of the one or more attachments using one or more fasteners. The one or more attachments when coupled to the one or more attachment provisions provided on and around the vehicle to transform the vehicle into one or more useful vehicle types such as an ATV, a UTV, a micro car, a golf cart, a club cart, an electric wheel barrel, an electric dumper, and a micro truck. The attachments are selected from a group of attachments consisting of at least one seat, at least one bumper, one or more fenders for front and rear uses, one or more footsteps, at least one container, a snowplow, a micro car body, a lawnmower, and a stretcher.

[0075] In an embodiment, each of the four wheels comprises an in-wheel motor and is motor-controlled, and coupled to the chassis to support the chassis for rolling on a surface (eg. rough roads or urban roads) using a pair of control arms.

[0076] In an embodiment, the chassis includes a cover for covering the in-built compartment holding the at least one battery module.

[0077] Various embodiments of the present disclosure describe an extruded chassis structure for an electric mobile platform vehicle that includes a top elongated wall arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a bottom elongated wall, and a first elongated side wall arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a second elongated side wall. The top wall, the bottom wall, and the first and second side walls are interconnected using at least four T-slot profiles, each located at a comer of the extruded chassis structure. Each of the T-slot profiles comprises at least one track to facilitate mounting one or more vehicle-related attachments to the extruded chassis structure without needing any kind of welding.

[0078] In an embodiment, the extruded chassis structure further comprises a first end and a second end that are covered by a front end cap, and a rear end cap forming an enclosed space there inside. The enclosed space further comprises an enclosure formed therein using a pair of separators.

[0079] In an embodiment, the extruded chassis structure is quadrilateral shaped and made of a light metal.

[0080] In an embodiment, each of the first elongated side wall and the second elongated side wall comprises a first opening, and a second opening to facilitate the configuration of the suspension systems for the electric mobile platform vehicle. [0081] In an embodiment, the extruded chassis structure includes at least one threaded reinforcing member configured underside at least one of: the top elongated wall, and the bottom elongated wall to reinforce the top elongated wall and the bottom elongated wall enhancing their rigidity. The at least one reinforcing member is a threaded C channel extending along the length of the extruded chassis structure. The at least one reinforcing member is adapted for connecting the front end wall, and the rear end wall at the first end and the second end of the extruded chassis structure. The at least one reinforcing member is configured for at least mounting one or more frame extenders, mounting the suspension systems for the electric mobile platform vehicle, supporting one or more battery modules configured within the enclosed space of the extruded chassis structure, acting as impact and scratch guard for the bottom elongated wall, acting as mud and water channels.

[0082] In an embodiment, each of the T-slot profiles comprises a void opening for at least providing torsional stiffness to the extruded chassis structure, a safe passage for cables and brake lines of the electric mobile platform vehicle, torsional stiffness to the at least one track of the T-slot profiles.

[0083] In an embodiment, the front end cap, and the rear end cap comprises one or more attachment provisions to mount the front end cap, and the rear end cap at the first end and the second end of the extruded chassis structure by connecting the front end cap, and the rear end cap using one or more fasteners.

[0084] In an embodiment, the one or more attachment provisions are used for connecting one or more vehicle related attachments utilizing the one or more fasteners.

[0085] In an embodiment, four wheels of the electric mobile platform vehicle are connected to the extruded chassis structure on the side walls utilizing respective pairs of control arms which are connected to the at least one track of the T-slot profiles in proximity to the first and second in an embodiment, openings.

[0086] In an embodiment, the at least one track comprises three longitudinal solidwalled sides, and a longitudinal slot for the passage of a fastener for connecting the one or more vehicle-related attachments to the extruded chassis structure. [0087] In an embodiment, the top elongated wall comprises a cover configured to allow accessibility to the one or more battery modules housed within the enclosure of the extruded chassis structure.

[0088] In an embodiment, the enclosed space of the extruded chassis structure houses one or more controllers and other electronics positioned adjacent to the first and second side walls of the extruded chassis structure to facilitate effective heat dissipation to the first and second side walls of the extruded chassis structure.

[0089] In an embodiment, the first opening, and/or the second opening facilitates changing the wheel-base length of the extruded chassis structure by moving the corresponding pair of control arms along the at least one track of the T-slot profiles.

[0090] In an embodiment, two of the at least four T-slot profiles, each connecting the top elongated wall to the first and second side walls comprises a lip extending therefrom acting as a support for mounting the cover thereon.

[0091] Various advantages and features of the present disclosure are described herein with specificity so as to make the present disclosure understandable to one of ordinary skill in the art, both with respect to how to practice the present disclosure and how to make the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0092] The above set forth and other features of the present disclosure are made more apparent in the ensuing description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the attached drawings, wherein:

[0093] FIG. 1 shows a top perspective view of a versatile, modular, and stackable four- wheeled mobile platform vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] FIGS. 2 and 3 show a side and front perspective view of a versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle respectively, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] FIG. 4 shows the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 1 with footsteps configured on either side of the chassis and at least one battery module housed within a compartment of the chassis, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0096] FIGS. 5A and 5B show sectional views of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 1 highlighting the presence of a flat suspension system and a pair of control arms connected to each of the tires.

[0097] FIGS. 6-9 shows partial cross-sectional views of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 1 specifically highlighting the steering mechanism of the vehicle.

[0098] FIGS. 10 and 11 show views of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 1 in a simplified form with a cover over the compartment holding at least one battery module removed, according to an embodiment.

[0099] FIGS. 12 and 13 are sectional views taken from FIG. 1 to illustrate a mechanism for changing the wheelbase length of the chassis, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0100] FIG. 14 is a diagram that illustrates the foldability of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 15, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] FIG. 15 shows the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 1 with the footsteps configured on either side of the chassis and a foldable operator's seat configured at the back of the chassis, according to an embodiment.

[0102] FIG. 16 shows the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 15 with the cover over the compartment of the chassis holding the least one battery module removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] FIG. 17 is a diagram that shows the stack formation after folding the four- wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 15 (without the footsteps) at the bed of a truck, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] FIGS. 18-26 shows the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIGS. 2 and 3 transformed into various forms of useful vehicle types for carrying out different works, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [0105] FIG. 27 shows a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profde for use with an electrically powered vehicle with its front end cap removed, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] FIG. 28 shows a cross-sectional view of the chassis structure of FIG. 27 taken along A- A.

[0107] FIGS. 29 and 30 show front perspective views of the chassis structure of FIG. 27 with footsteps configured on either side of the chassis, according to an embodiment.

[0108] FIG. 31 shows the chassis structure of FIG. 27 with footsteps configured on either side of the chassis, a pair of control arms for connecting each of the tires/wheels, a steering assembly, and an operator seat removably mounted on an upper control arm of the pair of control arms connected to the chassis structure.

[0109] FIG. 32 shows a perspective view of a four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle formed using the chassis structure of FIG. 27, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] FIG. 33 shows a sectional view of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 32 highlighting a pair of control arms connecting the chassis to each of the tires/wheels.

[0111] FIG. 34 shows a cross-sectional view of the chassis structure in the form of an extruded profile illustrated in FIG. 29 taken along B-B for highlighting the important features associated with the extruded profile.

[0112] FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectional view of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 32 along A-A’ formed using the chassis structure of FIG. 27.

[0113] FIG. 36 is an enlarged sectional view of FIG. 35 highlighting an upper portion of the chassis structure.

[0114] FIGS. 37 and 38 show views of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 32 in a more simplified form with a cover over an enclosed space holding one or more battery modules removed, according to an embodiment. [0115] FIGS. 39 and 40 are sectional views taken from FIG. 32 to illustrate a mechanism for changing the wheelbase length of the chassis structure used in an electric vehicle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0116] Identical reference numerals in the figures are intended to indicate like parts, although not every feature in every figure may be called out with a reference numeral.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0117] In the drawings, the relative sizes of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated and/or simplified for clarity. Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “under,” “above,” “upper,” “front” and “rear” and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or in operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “under” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0118] It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section described below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0119] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “between” two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers may also be present. [0120] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and “including,” “has,” “have,” and “having,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as “at least one of,” when preceding a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements of the list.

[0121] As used herein, the term “substantially,” “about,” “along,” and similar terms are merely used as terms of approximation and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of the present disclosure refers to “one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0122] For this disclosure, the terms “electrically powered vehicle”, and “electrical vehicle” are interchangeably used and the terms refer to a 4-wheeled electric mobile platform vehicle or electric mobile platform vehicle (also referred to as UPT) that’s capable of being converted or capable doing design changes to come up with one or more useful vehicle types such as but not limited to an ATV/UTV, a car, a micro truck, or other work vehicles for carrying out different works to meet the need of users. Further, in this disclosure, the term “vehicle- related components” refers to essential components of the vehicle without which the vehicle cannot function such as for example, suspension systems, steering system. Likewise, the term “vehicle-related attachments” refers to components that may be optional but not essential for connecting to a vehicle, for example, seats, fenders, bumpers, etc.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 1-26, particularly to FIGS. 1-13, 15-16, various embodiments of the versatile, modular, and stackable 4-wheeled electric mobile platform vehicle 100 (hereinafter referred to as “vehicle 100” or “a Utility Personal Transporter (UPT) 100”), parts and components associated therewith, and their functionality are shown, which will now be described in detail. [0124] As seen in the figures, the vehicle 100 or a UPT 100 is configured preferably in the form of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), an open single-rider vehicle having four wheels 105- 108 and generally designed for off-road use on various types of terrain or rough ground. Although for the sake of simplification, a seat 120 is not shown in some of the figures (such as in FIGS. 1-3), and in some figures, the seat 120 is shown (such as in FIG. 15-16), it should be understood that ATVs usually have the seat 120 (that can be removably attached) that is straddled by the operator/driver of the vehicle 100, along with motorcycle-like handlebars for steering control.

[0125] According to an embodiment, the vehicle 100 includes a chassis 102. The chassis 102 has a substantially flat deck 102a (indicated by a line) with a top surface 102b. The chassis 102 includes an in-built compartment 102c for housing at least one battery module 103 therein. In an embodiment, there can be one or up to eight battery module 103. The chassis 102 includes a removable cover 102d. The cover 102d is used to conceal or cover the compartment 102c holding the at least one battery module 103. In an embodiment, the chassis 102 is substantially cuboidal in shape and has a front end 102f, a back end 102T , and two sides 102g as seen in FIG. 1. In another embodiment, the chassis 102 may be configured in different other shapes substantially rectangular. In an embodiment, the top surface 102b of the chassis 102 is covered by a mat 102e (FIG. 2). The mat 102e covers/conceals the cover 102d over the compartment 102c to provide a smooth surface and may also make the chassis 102 water resistant.

[0126] According to an embodiment, the chassis 102 allows mounting of at least one seat 120 in a plurality of seating configurations. The seating configurations may include but not limited to a side-by-side configuration, a tandem configuration, bench like seating configuration, a lower seating configuration, a saddle seat configuration and so on based on the needs of the vehicle 100 and the form of another useful vehicle to which the vehicle 100 is converted.

[0127] In an embodiment, the chassis 102 has a fixed wheelbase length as seen in at least FIG. 2. In another embodiment, the chassis 102 may be featured to have varying wheelbase length utilizing some mechanics as best seen in FIGS. 10-11 and will be described in the description to follow with respect to FIGS. 12 and 13. [0128] According to an embodiment, besides the chassis 102, the vehicle or a UPT 100 includes a steering assembly 104. The steering assembly includes a steering column 104a, and a handlebar 104f mounted on the steering column 104a. The steering assembly 104 is removably mounted (to the front, left-hand side of vehicle 100) on an upper control arm 106b of the pair of control arms 106a, 106b coupled to the chassis 102 of the vehicle 100. However, it should be understood that instead of being mounted on the front, left-hand side of vehicle 100, the steering assembly 104a may be mounted on the front, right-hand side of vehicle 100 on an upper control arm 105b of the pair of control arms 105a,105b coupled to the chassis 102.

[0129] According to an embodiment, the steering column 104a is configured to be selectively used in a first configuration, a second configuration, or a third configuration. The first configuration allows the steering column 104a to be tilted at a predefined angle (eg.30 degrees, 40 degrees) for a seated position ride of the vehicle 100. For example, when the vehicle 100 is to be used as a replacement for a small car/micro car for a seated position ride. The second configuration allows the steering column 104a to be oriented straight or perpendicular to the chassis 102 at 90 degrees. This position of the steering column 104a is used mainly for a standing position ride of the vehicle 100, for example, in ATVs. The third configuration allows the steering column 104a to be completely folded for storage or stackability after any attachments 120-128 attached to the one or more attaching provisions (or points) 112 are removed or folded. FIG. 14 shows the vehicle 100 in a folded state, specifically, the steering column 104a, and the operator’s seat 120 is shown completely folded to facilitate storage of the vehicle 100. The steering column 104a is completely folded about a pivotal join or connection 104o. Likewise, the standing seat column of the seat 120 is completely folded about a pivotal joint 120a to enable folding of the vehicle 100 as shown in FIG. 14. The folded vehicles 100 can be easily stacked together and transported from one location to another. FIG. 17 typically shows a number of the vehicles 100 folded and stacked at a bed area 202 of a traditional truck 200. Although FIG. 17 shows three vehicles 100 loaded or stacked on the bed 202 of the truck 200, it should be understood that depending on the size of the trucks, the more or less number of vehicles 100 can be transported. The foldability, stackability of the vehicle 100 facilitates any agencies to deploy any number of such vehicles during disasters and emergencies at any location in no time to carry out rescue operations even when the ground surfaces are challenged. [0130] In an embodiment, the handlebar 104f portion of the steering assembly 104 is made offsetable. Meaning, the handlebar 104f is selectively positionable at the centreline of the chassis 102 specially while using the vehicle 100 as an ATV to either ride in a seated position or standing position by a single operator, or to a left side of the chassis 102 of the vehicle 100, if the vehicle 100 is preferably being used as a micro car or small car. In some other embodiment, the handlebar 104f may be slidable to the right side, if the steering assembly 104 is positioned on the front, right-hand side of the vehicle (on the control arm 105b). Particularly, the handlebar 104f is mounted onto the steering column 104a via support 104e attached under the handlebar 104f and that allows the handlebar 104f to rotate in both directions. The support 104e is mounted on a carriage 104p slidable along a rail 104q internally mounted within the steering column 104a as seen in FIG. 9. The cutout section 104d of the column 104a facilitates in sliding of the carriage 104p or support 104e from centreline to the left.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 6-9 in conjunction with FIG. 1 specifically shows partial cross-sectional views of the four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle of FIG. 1 taken from the front to specifically high-light the steering mechanism of the vehicle or UPT 100. As seen the steering column 104a is configured in a L-shaped configuration with portions 104b and 104c. The portion 104c is telescopically configured over the portion 104b to allow height adjustment of the steering column 104a. There is another portion 104c’ removably or fixedly connected to the portion 104c. The portion 104c’ also includes a cutout section 104d that allows the handlebar 104f mounting on top of the column 104a and allows the handlebar 104f to slide to the centreline or to the left of the vehicle chassis 102. Although the presented embodiment shows and describes a shaft-to-shaft transmission assembly to allow handlebar 104f to slide to the centreline or to the left of the vehicle chassis 102, it is to be understood that the sliding mechanism may be implemented using other different mechanisms. Further, instead of using the sliding mechanism described in the presented embodiment, one can effectively use other methods such as but not limited to at least a chain and sprocket, a belt and pulley system to facilitate changing the position of the handlebar 104f to the centreline or to the left of the vehicle chassis 102.

[0132] As seen in FIGS. 6-9, the steering columnl04a includes one or more U-joints 104h-104j, and a plurality of shafts 104k- 104m. Each of the universal joints or U joints 104h- 104j functions to connect two rotating shafts at an angle. In other words, Universal joints make it possible to link two shafts together even if they are not perfectly aligned with one another. They allow the shafts to rotate at different speeds and angles while still transmitting power between them. As known in the art, universal joints or U-joints are commonly used in vehicles to connect the driveshaft to the transmission, as well as in industrial machinery, power tools, and other equipment. The shafts 104k- 104m are operationally connected to a bracket 110 which in turn is connected to a tie rod 111 for transferring the steering motion to the wheels 105-108. The shaft 1041 is selectively slidable into a barrel 104n to allow adjusting the height of the steering column 104a. As seen, the shaft 104k is angularly oriented and operationally connected to a carriage 104p for moving the carriage 104p along a rail 104q within the steering column 104a.

[0133] The steering column 104a is configured to operate in the first configuration (tilted position), and/or the third configuration (completely folded position) at a pivotal connection 104o. The pivotal connection 104o selectively aligns with the U-joint 104j to tilt the steering column 104a at the predefined angle for the seated position ride of the vehicle 100 or completely folded for storage or stackability of the vehicle 100.

[0134] Further referring to FIGS. 1-3 in conjunction with FIGS. 4-5, the vehicle/UPT 100 further comprises a relatively flat suspension system 109, unlike other prior existing vehicles. The flat suspension system 109 provides better stability, better braking capability, and higher off-road /on-road capability to the proposed vehicle. The flat suspension system 109 comprises a double wishbone (two control arms on two sides) with 120mm travel. The suspension system 109 includes a shock absorber 109a, and a coil spring 109b wound around the shock absorber 109a. The suspension system 109 is configured near each of the four wheels 105-108 substantially in a horizontal orientation. As seen, each of the suspension systems 109 (at four wheels) is connected to a respective control arm 105a or 106a or 107a or 108a using a respective bracket 105c or 106c or 107c or 108c at its first end and to another bracket 102h positioned inside and substantially at the centreline of the chassis 102. Although only one bracket 102h is shown in the front of the chassis 102, it should be understood that there is going to be another bracket similar to 102h at the back and inside the chassis 102 to support one end of the suspension systems 109 associated with the back wheels 107,108.

[0135] Further, according to another embodiment, as can be seen in FIG. 5B, instead of having 4 suspension systems 109 (FIG. 5 A), the vehicle 100 may be provided with two suspension systems, each connecting the front wheels 105,106 together and the rear wheels 107 together to facilitate tilt steering in the vehicle 100 substantially similar to that offered by an in-line two-wheeled vehicle as best described in US 7487,985. Although FIG. 5B just shows a single suspension system 109 connecting front wheels 105, 106 using brackets 105c, 106c, it should be understood that a similar arrangement for a suspension system is present for rear wheels. The suspension system 109 includes a shock absorber 109a, and a coil spring 109b wound around the shock absorber 109a.

[0136] Further, according to an embodiment, the proposed vehicle/UPT 100 with four wheels 105-108 comprises an in-wheel motor (not seen). Each of the in-wheel motors controls and/or drives respective the wheel. Each of the in-motor wheels is coupled to the chassis 102 to support the chassis 102 for rolling on a surface (such as urban terrain, rough roads, and so on). Each of the in-motor wheels is coupled to the chassis 102 using a pair of respective control arms 105a, 105b or 106a, 106b or 107a,107b or 108a, 108b. The wheels 105-108 are thus traction-controlled wheels and provide stability and safety through regenerative braking, maximum traction, climbing power, and towing capacity to the vehicle 100.

[0137] Further, the proposed vehicle/UPT 100 is provided with one or more attachment provisions 112 provided on and around the chassis 102 for removably attaching one or more attachments or implements 120-128 thereon, as at least shown in FIGS. 2 and 4.

[0138] In an embodiment, the attachment provisions 112 are provided in the form of slots, and/or rails, or any other suitable forms such as straps, etc, to facilitate attachment of the implements/attachments 120-128. One or more fasteners 113 may be used for attaching the implements/attachments 120-128 to the chassis 102 utilizing attachment provisions 112. FIG. 1 and 4 particularly show vehicle 100 with slots and rail provided as attachment provisions 112, whereas the vehicle 100 in FIGS. 2-3 typically shows the presence of slots for mounting the implements using suitable fasteners. The slots, as an example of the attachment provisions 112, provided can be used to mount different implements 120-128 utilizing different sorts of fasteners (E.g. nut and bolt, screws). Likewise, the rail, as another example of the attachment provisions 112, provided may also be used to hook on and optionally slide various implements 120-128. In an embodiment, the rails are provided at two sides 102g of chassis 102, and can be utilized to mount footsteps 123 (or other suitable implements) on either side 102g of the vehicle 104. Further in an embodiment, the rails allows the chassis 102 to change wheelbase as seen in FIGS. 10-11. Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the sectional views taken illustrate a mechanism for changing the wheelbase length of the chassis, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The four wheels 105-108 are connected to the chassis 102 on the sides 102g utilizing respective control arms 105a, 105b or 106a,106b or 107a, 107b or 108a,108b. Each of these pairs of control arms 108a and 108b are connected to rails utilizing rail nuts and bolts, as examples of the fasteners 113. In operation, when the operator desires to change the wheelbase of the chassis, the user can simply loosen the bolt (provided with the control arm) to disengage it from the rail nut disposed within the rail and slide the control arm pair to the desired distance and retighten the control arm bolt with the rail nut together to retain the position of the wheel. This helps in changing the wheelbase length of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, where the wheelbase length change is not desired, one can also connect the control arms by utilizing slots provided on the sides of chassis 102 using a nut and bolt pair instead of using rails and rail nut and bolt.

[0139] The attachment provisions 112 provided on and around chassis 102 helps in transforming the vehicle 100 into one or more useful vehicle types for various uses as best seen in FIGS. 18-26. This makes the proposed vehicle versatile and widely acceptable. The useful vehicle types may consist of but are not limited to an ATV, a UTV, a micro car, a golf cart, a club cart, an electric wheel barrel, an electric dumper, and a micro truck. The one or more attachments 120-128 may consist but not limited to one or more seats 120, at least one bumper 121, one or more fenders for front and rear uses 122, one or more footsteps 123, at least one container 124 for carrying loads, a snowplow 125 for snow removal, a micro car body 126 for urban commuting, a lawn or field mower 127 for agricultural use, and a stretcher 128 for emergency evacuation.

[0140] FIG. 18 shows a transformed vehicle by connecting fenders 122 to the front and back of the vehicle 100, a pair of bumpers 121 (that may fold or unfold) connected to the front and back of the vehicle 100, and the footsteps 123 to the sides 102d of the vehicle 100. These implements are connected utilizing the attachment provisions (or points) 112 provided on the chassis 102 using suitable fasteners 113. The ability to connect various implements to the vehicle 100 potentially allows a user of the vehicle to use the vehicle 100 for different purposes. Tilting the steering assembly 104 and sliding the handlebar 104f to the left (although the handlebar 104f is shown centerline), and mounting seats 120 on top of the back fenders 122 allows the user to use the vehicle 100 in a seated position. In this configuration, the transformed vehicle may be used as a golfing cart or a UTV. Likewise, the user/operator can additionally mount a stretcher 128 laid on top of the seats 120 mounted over the fenders 122 in the front and back as shown in FIG. 22. This configuration is very useful in disaster-prone areas for carrying out rescue operations.

[0141] FIG. 19 shows a transformed vehicle by connecting fenders 122 to the front and back of the vehicle 100, a bumper 121 (that may fold or unfold) connected to the front of the vehicle 100, and the footsteps 123 to the sides 102d of the chassis 102. The steering assembly 104 is shown oriented straight (without any tilt) and the handlebar 104f centerline with respect to the chassis 102. Instead of the back seat of FIG. 18, a single operator seat 120 that can be tilted at an angle or folded completely is shown mounted near the rightmost rear wheel 107. The transformed vehicle is similar to conventional ATVs and can be used for normal rides on rough roads or urban roads and the front bumper when unfolded can allow carrying load.

[0142] FIG. 20 shows a transformed vehicle by connecting fenders 122 to the front and back of the vehicle 100, a bumper 121 (in an unfolded position) connected to the front of the vehicle 100, and the footsteps 123 to the sides 102d of the chassis 102. In this configuration, there is a container 124 shown mounted on the rear fenders 122 utilizing appropriate attachment provisions 112 provided on fenders 122 at the back and utilizing suitable fasteners. In this configuration, both the container 124 and the foldable bumper can be used for carrying load. The steering is shown configured similar to FIG. 19. FIG. 21 specifically shows a user riding the transformed vehicle in a standing position for carrying long wooden logs 150 placed across the flat deck 102a and carrying a load 152 placed on the container. The flat deck helps in carrying big logs 150 comfortably without any hindrances.

[0143] FIG. 23 shows a micro car body 126 configured over the chassis 102 for urban uses. This configuration allows a user (or users) to use the vehicle 100 (as a micro car) in odd weather conditions and commute comfortably in urban areas just like any other small car. The micro car shown in FIG. 23 can be transformed to include a snowplow 125 (as seen in FIG. 24) for the removal of snow from snow-prone areas particularly snow deposited on the public roads.

[0144] FIG. 25 shows yet another utility aspect of the vehicle 100, wherein vehicle 100 is shown to be capable of carrying load 152 in the front and back like trucks. The vehicle 100 embodies container 124 placed over the fenders 122 (using attachment provisions provided thereon and using fasteners 113) in the front and back. Further, any other cart/lorry 154 (capable of carrying load 152) can be towed using the vehicle 100 by connecting the cart/lorry at the back end 102f of the vehicle chassis 102 utilizing the attachment provisions 112 and suitable fastener 113.

[0145] FIG. 26 shows yet another utility aspect of the vehicle 100, wherein the vehicle 100 is shown configured as in FIG. 3 except an agricultural implement/attachment 127 being attached to the front of the chassis 102. The attachment 127 is a lawn or field mower 127 used for agricultural uses for moving the field. The user is seen riding the vehicle 100 in a standing position just like an ATV.

[0146] FIGS. 18-26 merely illustrates some exemplary transformations that can be derived from the vehicle 100 by adding in or removing different attachments. There can be numerous other possible configurations that can be envisioned utilizing the vehicle 100 to convert the vehicle 100 to a vehicle that may be useful for some specific purpose. Depending upon the user’s requirement, the user can add or remove one or other implements for various purposes/uses.

[0147] Referring to the accompanying figures, FIGS. 27-40, specifically to FIGS. 27- 30, as an example of the chassis 102, a chassis structure in the form of an extruded profile for use with an electrically powered vehicle in accordance with various embodiments is shown. The chassis structure will be referred to as extruded chassis structure 302. The extruded chassis structure 302 is of a predefined length and a predefined width. The extruded chassis structure 302 includes a top elongated wall 302a arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a bottom elongated wall 302b. The extruded chassis structure 302 further includes a first elongated side wall 302c arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a second elongated side wall 302d. The top elongated wall 302a, the bottom elongated wall 302b, and the side walls 302c, and 302d are made in predefined length and width and are made using suitable metallic sheets of light metal, for example, but not limited to Aluminium. Similarly, the two side walls 302c, and 302d are made in predefined lengths and widths using suitable metallic sheets of light metal for example, but not limited to Aluminium. The top elongated wall 302a, and the bottom elongated wall 302b are made identical in shape and size. The two side walls 302c, and 302d are also made identical in shape and size.

[0148] Further, as best seen in FIG. 28, the top elongated wall 302a, the bottom elongated wall 302b, and the side walls 302c, and 302d are all interconnected using at least four T-slot profiles 302e-302h. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that it is possible to have fewer T slot profiles as part of the extrusion 302 depending upon the requirements of the attachments that need to be attached to the vehicle 100, depending upon the requirement of the suspension systems.

[0149] The T slot profile 302e connects an end of the top elongated wall 302a with an end of the side wall 302d. The T slot profile 302f connects an end of the top elongated wall 302a with an end of the side wall 302c. The T slot profile 302g connects an end of the bottom elongated wall 302b with an end of the side wall 302c. Likewise, the T slot profile 302h connects an end of the bottom elongated wall 302b with an end of the side wall 302d. As seen, each of T-slot profiles 302e-302h is located at a comer of the extruded chassis structure 302.

[0150] Additionally, as best seen in FIGS. 29-30 in conjunction with FIG. 27, the extruded chassis structure 302 includes a first end 303a and a second end 303b. The first end 303a is covered using a front end cap 3021, and the second end 303b is covered using a rear end cap 302m forming an enclosed space 302k inside the extruded chassis structure 302. The front and rear end caps 3021 and 302m provide torsional stiffness to the chassis structure against twisting/bending of the structure 302. The enclosed space 302k is further divided to form an enclosure 302ka that preferably houses one or more battery modules 310, one or more motor controllers 310a, and other electronics. The enclosure 302ka is waterproof. A front separator 302kb (FIGS. 29 and 30), and a rear separator 302kc (not seen) separate the enclosure 302ka from the entire length of the enclosed space 302k. The separators 302kb,302kc provide sealing from water from the front end and rear end of the enclosure 302ka. The cover 302o seals the enclosure 302ka from top whereas the bottom elongated wall 302b seals the enclosure 302ka from the bottom to make the enclosure 302ka waterproof. The motor controllers 310a and other electronics are preferably disposed of or located adjacent to the side walls 302c, and 302d (of the enclosure 302ka) for effective heat dissipation. In other words, the walls 302c, and 302d act as a means for the controllers 310a, and other electronics to dissipate therethrough. Further, the top elongated wall 302a includes a cover 302o to allow accessibility to the battery modules 310, one or more motor controllers 310a, and other electronics.

[0151] As seen, the extruded chassis structure 302 is quadrilateral shaped. In an embodiment, the extruded chassis structure 302 is cuboidal shaped. In some other embodiment, the extruded chassis structure 302 is square-shaped. The extruded chassis structure 302 in the preferred embodiment is made as a unitary product or a single-piece product. In some other embodiments, the extruded chassis structure 302 may be made in two or more pieces that may be fixedly joined together (by wending for example) or removably joined together using known mechanisms to form the extruded chassis structure 302.

[0152] Further, referring to FIGS. 27, 29-33, 35, and 36, each of the first elongated side wall 302c and the second elongated side wall 302d includes a first opening 302e, and a second opening 302f. The openings 302e, and 302f facilitate the configuration of suspension systems 109 for the electric mobile platform vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the suspension systems 109 are relatively flat suspension systems. Each of the suspension systems 109 includes a shock absorber and a coil spring wound around the shock absorber. The suspension system 109 is configured near each of the four wheels 105-108 substantially in a horizontal orientation. The suspension system 109 is connected to a control arm of the pair of control arms 105a, 105b or 106a, 106b or 107a, 107b or 108a, 108b using a first bracket at its first end and to a second bracket positioned inside and substantially at the centreline of the chassis structure 302 within the enclosed space 302k. The first opening 302e and/or the second opening 302f facilitates in changing the wheelbase length of the extruded chassis structure 302 by moving the corresponding pair of control arms 105a, 105b or 106a, 106b or 107a, 107b or 108a, 108b along the at least one track 302i of the T-slot profiles 302e-302h as will be explained with respect to FIGS. 37-40.

[0153] Turning back to at least FIG. 28, each of the four T-slot profiles 302e-302h includes at least one track 302i,302j to facilitate mounting one or more vehicle-related components to the extruded chassis structure 302. The vehicle-related components may include but not limited to suspension systems 109, steering assembly 311. Although the T-slot profiles 302e-302h are shown to have two tracks 302i,302j, it should be understood that it is possible to have just one track 302i or 302j or even more number of tracks depending upon the design requirement.

[0154] In the accompanying figures, the T-slot profiles 302e-302h are shown to include two tracks, namely a track 302i, and a track 302j. The track 302i of the T-slot profiles 302e- 302h are configured to connect various vehicle-related components sidewise or on top. For example, suspension systems 109 are seen connected to the extruded chassis 302 via these tracks 302i of the T-slot profiles 302e-302h as best seen in at least FIGS. 29-31, and 34. The four wheels 105-108 of the electric mobile platform vehicle 100 are connected to the extruded chassis structure 302 on the side walls 302c, 302d utilizing respective pairs of control arms 105a, 105b or 106a,106b or 107a, 107b or 108a, 108b which are connected to the tracks 302i of the T-slot profiles 302e-302h in proximity to the openings 302e,302f. Further, the footsteps 313 are shown connected to the chassis 302 using the tracks 302i. The footsteps 313 are provided with slots similar to the slots 302n and attached to the track 302i using rail nuts and bolts. In the example, the footsteps 313 are shown to be a portion of the proposed extruded chassis 302 (half a section). Many other attachments such as one or more supports for mounting one or more fenders for front and rear uses (not seen), front, and rear bumper mounting brackets (not seen), and one or more additional similar extruded chassis structures to increase the width or length of the extruded chassis structure 302 (to make vehicle with larger length and width) can also be connected similarly. These are merely exemplary components and attachments. It is possible to connect other vehicle-related attachments that may be suitable for use with the chassis 302 without limitation. To elaborate, as seen in FIG. 28, each of the tracks 302i of the T-slot profdes 302e-302h include three longitudinal solid-walled sides 314a-314c, and a longitudinal slot 314d for passage of a fastener (preferably a rail nut) 302q for connecting the one or more vehicle-related attachments to the extruded chassis structure 302. In assembly, the rail nuts 302q are inserted into the tracks 302i with their head within the tracks 302i and then the vehicle-related attachments discussed above are bolted using suitable bolts (not seen). This helps avoid any need for welding.

[0155] Similarly, the track 302j of the T-slot profdes 302e-302h are configured to connect various other suitable vehicle-related components and/or attachments on top or bottom of the chassis 302. For example, a steering assembly 311 is vehicle-related component, an operator seat 312, a covered body (not seen), one or more racks (not seen) are vehicle-related attachments that may be mounted to the chassis 302 using the track 302j. These are merely exemplary components and attachments. It is possible to connect other vehicle-related components and attachments that may be suitable for use with the extruded chassis 302 without any limitations.

[0156] Furthermore, as seen in FIG. 28, each of the T-slot profiles 302e-302 includes a void opening 302p. These void openings 302p provide torsional stiffness to the extruded chassis structure 302. Additionally, the void opening 302p facilitates a safe passage for cables and brake lines of the electric mobile platform vehicle 100 and also provides torsional stiffness to the tracks 302i, and 302j of the T-slot profiles 302e-302h.

[0157] Additionally, as can be best seen in FIG. 28 and FIG. 34, two of the four T-slot profiles 302e-302h, each connecting the top elongated wall 302a to the side walls 302c, 302d includes a lip 302r. The lip 302r extends from the T-slot profdes 302e and 302f. The two lips 302r act as a support for mounting the battery cover 302o thereon. A gasket 302s is placed on the lip 302r and one or more fasteners 302q are used to removably couple the cover 302o over the lip 302r.

[0158] Referring again to FIG. 28 in conjunction with FIG. 27, the extruded chassis structure 302 further includes at least one reinforcing member 304 configured underside either the top elongated wall 302a or configured underside the bottom elongated wall 302b or configured on both walls 302a, 302b to reinforce the walls 302a,302b enhancing their rigidity and make them more rigid. The at least one reinforcing member 304 are threaded inside for connecting various fasteners. In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing member 304 is a C- shaped channel (internally threaded channels) extending along the length of the extruded chassis structure 302 in other words extending along the length of the top and bottom elongated walls 302a, 302b. The reinforcing members 304 are adopted for connecting the front end cap 3021, and the rear end cap 302m at the first end 303a and the second end 303b of the extruded chassis structure 302 as seen at least in FIGS. 29-30. The front end cap 3021, and the rear end cap 302m are connected at the first end 303a and the second end 303b of the extruded chassis structure 302 using one or more attachment provisions 302n located on the front and rear end walls 3021,302m. In an example, the attachment provisions 302n are provided in the form of slots. One or more fasteners 302q are inserted through these attachment provisions 302n on the front and rear end caps 3021,302m to connect them to the reinforcing members 304 configured underside the top elongated wall 302a and the bottom elongated wall 302b. The attachment provisions 302n in the form of sots preferably located on the front and rear end caps 3021,302m may be used for connecting one or more attachments utilizing one or more suitable fasteners 302q. The attachments may include but are not limited to a front bumper mounted on the front end caps 3021, one or more containers for carrying different loads (not seen), a micro car body for urban commuting (not seen), a stretcher for emergency evacuation (not seen), a snowplow for snow removal (not seen), a lawn mower for agricultural use (not seen), one or more seats 312, one or more footsteps 313, one or more racks, one or more additional extruded chassis structures to increase the width of the extruded chassis structure 302 and so on.

[0159] The attachment provisions 302n, and the tracks 302i, and 302j of the T slot profiles 302e-302h help in easily converting an electric mobile platform vehicle 100 to one or more types of utility vehicles. [0160] Additionally, the provided reinforcing members 304 on the extruded chassis structure 302 are also used for mounting one or more frame extenders (not seen), mounting the suspension systems 109 for the electric mobile platform vehicle 100, for supporting one or more battery modules 310 configured within the enclosure 302ka of the extruded chassis structure 302 (FIG. 34). The reinforcing members 304 may act as impact and scratch guard for the bottom elongated wall 302. The reinforcing members 304 also act as mud and water channels to rain them out of the chassis 302.

[0161] According to an embodiment, the first opening 302e, and/or the second opening 302f facilitates changing the wheelbase length of the extruded chassis structure 302 by moving the corresponding pair of control arms 105a,105b or 106a, 106b or 107a, 107b or 108a,108b along the at least one track 302i of the T-slot profiles 302e-302h.

[0162] Now referring to FIGS. 37-40, the proposed extruded chassis structure 302 provides wheelbase length adjustment for the vehicle 100. The first opening 302e and/or the second opening 302f facilitates changing the wheelbase length of the extruded chassis structure 302 by moving the corresponding pair of control arms 105a,105b or 106a,106b or 107a, 107b or 108a, 108b along the track 302i of the T-slot profiles 302e-302h. In an example embodiment, the wheelbase adjustment is carried out by moving the pair of control arms 107a, 107b and 108a, 108b along the track 302i of the T slot profiles 302e-302h. The user needs to unbolt the respective control arms 107a, 107b configured on side wall 302c and control arms 108a, 108b configured on side wall 302d and then slide the rail nut 302q within the tracks 302i for selective location and then retighten the bolt 302q to the rail nut 302q to fix the new position for the rear control arms 107a, 107b and 108a, 108b. FIG. 37 specifically shows the wheelbase becoming shorter. The rear pair of control arms connecting rear wheels 107,108 to the chassis 302 is moved to the left (indicated by a small arrow) to make the wheelbase shorter for the extruded chassis 302. If need be, the user can follow the same process and shift the pair of control arms 107a, 107b and 108a, 108b to the right again as seen in FIG. 38 for maximum wheelbase length.

[0163] The proposed extruded chassis structure 302 and associated components may be made using various suitable materials in different dimensions as required.

[0164] It is contemplated that any part of any aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented or combined with any part of any other aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification, so long as such those parts are not mutually exclusive with each other.

[0165] While the disclosure has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A versatile, modular, and stackable four-wheeled mobile platform vehicle or UPT, comprising: a chassis comprising a substantially flat deck with a top surface, and a plurality of flat suspension systems, the chassis further comprises an in-built compartment for housing at least one battery module therein, and wherein the chassis allows mounting of at least one seat in a plurality of seating configurations; a steering assembly comprising a steering column, and a handlebar mounted on the steering column, wherein the steering column is configured to be selectively used in a first configuration, a second configuration, or a third configuration, and wherein the handlebar is positionable at least at a centreline of the chassis, or to a left side of the chassis of the vehicle; one or more attachment provisions provided on and around the chassis for removably attaching one or more attachments thereon, wherein the one or more attachments when coupled to the one or more attachment provisions provided on and around the vehicle transforms the vehicle into one or more useful vehicle types; and wherein, each of the four wheels comprises an in-wheel motor and is motor-controlled, and coupled to the chassis to support the chassis for rolling on a surface using a pair of control arms.

2. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of claim 1 further comprising a cover for covering the in-built compartment holding the at least one battery module.

3. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of claim 1 or 2, wherein the chassis is substantially cuboidal in shape.

4. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first configuration allows the steering column to be tilted at a predefined angle for a seated position ride of the vehicle, the second configuration allows the steering column to be oriented straight at 90 degrees with respect to the chassis for a standing position ride of the vehicle and the third configuration allows the steering column to be completely folded for storage or stackability of the vehicle.

5. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the suspension system is connected to a control arm of the pair of control arms using a first bracket at its first end and to a second bracket positioned inside and substantially at the centreline of the chassis.

6. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the handlebar is mounted on the steering column using a carriage slidable along a rail internally mounted within the steering column.

7. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the handlebar is mounted on the steering column using at least a chain and sprocket, a belt and pulley system, and a shaft-to-shaft transmission assembly.

8. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the steering column is height adjustable, and comprises a plurality of U-joints, and a plurality of shafts operationally connected to a third bracket which in turn is connected to a tie rod for transferring the steering motion to the wheels; and the steering column is configured to operate in the first configuration, and/or the third configuration at a pivotal connection.

9. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of claim 8, wherein: a shaft of the plurality of shafts is selectively slidable into a barrel for adjusting the height of the steering column; and a shaft of the plurality of shafts is angularly oriented and operationally connected to the carriage for moving the carriage along the rail within the steering column.

10. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of claim 8 or 9, wherein the pivotal connection selectively aligns with a U-joint of the plurality of U-joints to tilt the steering column at the predefined angle for seated position ride of the vehicle or completely folded for storage or stackability of the vehicle.

11. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the steering assembly is removably mounted on an upper control arm of the pair of control arms coupled to the chassis of the vehicle.

12. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more attachment provisions are provided in the form of at least slots, and/or rails to facilitate attachment of the one or more attachments using one or more fasteners.

13. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the one or more useful vehicle types are selected from a group of vehicles consisting of an ATV, a UTV, a micro car, a golf cart, a club cart, an electric wheel barrel, an electric dumper, and a micro truck.

14. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the one or more attachments are selected from a group of attachments consisting of at least one seat, at least one bumper, one or more fenders for front and rear uses, one or more footsteps, at least one container, a snowplow, a micro car body, a lawn or field mower, and a stretcher.

15. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the chassis is configured such that the wheelbase of the vehicle can be varied.

16. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of claim 15, wherein the one or more attachments are at least foldable and/or removable to facilitate in folding and stacking of the vehicle.

17. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the at least one battery module comprises up to eight battery modules.

18. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the suspension system is configured near each of the four wheels substantially in a horizontal orientation.

19. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein each of the suspension systems is configured to connect the two front wheels together and the two rear wheels together to facilitate tilt steering in the vehicle substantially similar to that offered by an in-line two-wheeled vehicle.

20. The versatile and stackable four-wheeled vehicle or UPT of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the plurality of seating configurations comprises at least a side-by-side configuration, a tandem configuration, bench like seating configuration, a lower seating configuration, a saddle seat configuration.

21. An extruded chassis structure for an electric platform vehicle, comprising: a top elongated wall arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a bottom elongated wall; a first elongated side wall arranged in a spaced-apart relationship with a second elongated side wall; wherein, the top wall, the bottom wall, and the first and second side walls are interconnected using at least four T-slot profiles, each located at a comer of the extruded chassis structure; wherein, a first end and a second end of the extruded chassis structure are covered by a front end cap, and a rear end cap forming an enclosed space there inside, wherein the front end cap and the rear end cap provides torsional stiffness against bending to the extruded chassis structure; and wherein each of the T-slot profiles comprises at least one track to facilitate mounting one or more vehicle-related attachments to the extruded chassis structure.

22. The extruded chassis structure of claim 21, wherein the enclosed space embodies an enclosure for housing one or more battery modules there inside.

23. The extruded chassis structure of claim 21 or 22, wherein the extruded chassis structure is quadrilateral shaped.

24. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the extruded chassis structure is made of a light metal.

25. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the one or more vehicle-related components are selected from a group of components consisting of a steering assembly, suspension systems.

26. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein each of the first elongated side wall and the second elongated side wall comprises a first opening, and a second opening to facilitate configuration of the suspension systems for the electric mobile platform vehicle.

27. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 26 further comprising at least one reinforcing member configured underside at least one of: the top elongated wall, and the bottom elongated wall to reinforce the top elongated wall and the bottom elongated wall enhancing their rigidity.

28. The extruded chassis structure of claim 27, wherein the at least one reinforcing member is a C channel extending along the length of the extruded chassis structure.

29. The extruded chassis structure of claim 27 or 28, wherein the at least one reinforcing member is internally threaded and adapted for connecting the front end cap, and the rear end cap at the first end and the second end of the extruded chassis structure.

30. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the at least one reinforcing member is configured for at least mounting one or more frame extenders, mounting the suspension systems for the electric mobile platform vehicle, supporting the one or more battery modules configured within the enclosure, acting as impact and scratch guard for the bottom elongated wall, acting as mud and water channels.

31. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 30, wherein each ofthe T-slot profdes comprises a void opening for at least providing torsional stiffness to the extruded chassis structure, a safe passage for cables and brake lines of the electric mobile platform vehicle, torsional stiffness to the at least one track of the T-slot profiles.

32. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 31, wherein the front end cap, and the rear end cap comprises one or more attachment provisions to mount the front end cap, and the rear end cap at the first end and the second end of the extruded chassis structure by connecting the front end cap, and the rear end cap using one or more fasteners that engages the at least one threaded reinforcing member.

33. The extruded chassis structure of claim 32, wherein the one or more attachment provisions are slots.

34. The extruded chassis structure of claim 32 or 33, wherein the one or more attachment provisions are used for connecting one or more attachments utilizing the one or more fasteners, thereby not requiring any welding.

35. The extruded chassis structure of claim 34, wherein the one or more attachment provisions comprises at least a front bumper, a rear bumper, one or more fenders for front and rear, a container for carrying loads, a snowplows for snow removal, a micro car body for urban commuting, a stretcher for emergency evacuation, a lawn mower for agricultural, one or more seats, one or more footsteps, one or more racks, one or more additional extruded chassis structures to increase the width of the extruded chassis structure.

36. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 35, wherein four wheels of the electric platform vehicle are connected to the extruded chassis structure on the side walls utilizing respective pair of control arms which are connected to the at least one track of the T-slot profiles in proximity to the first and second openings.

37. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 36, wherein the at least one track comprises three longitudinal solid-walled sides, and a longitudinal slot for passage of a fastener for connecting one or more vehicle-related attachments to the extruded chassis structure.

38. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 37, wherein the top elongated wall comprises a cover configured to allow accessibility to the one or more battery modules housed within the enclosure formed within the enclosed space of the extruded chassis structure.

39. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 38, wherein the enclosure of the enclosed space of the extruded chassis structure houses one or more controllers and other electronics positioned adjacent to the first and second side walls of the extruded chassis structure to facilitate effective heat dissipation to the first and second side walls of the extruded chassis structure.

40. The extruded chassis structure of claim 26, wherein the first opening, and/or the second opening facilitates changing the wheelbase length of the extruded chassis structure by moving corresponding pair of control arms along the at least one track of the T-slot profiles.

41. The extruded chassis structure of any one of claims 21 to 40, wherein two of the at least four T-slot profiles, each connecting the top elongated wall to the first and second side walls comprises a lip extending therefrom acting as a support for mounting the cover thereon.

42. The extruded chassis structure of claim 41, wherein the extruded chassis structure further comprises a gasket placed on the lip and one or more fasteners to removably couple the cover over the lip.

43. The extruded chassis structure of claim 22, wherein the enclosure is waterproof.

44. The extruded chassis structure of claim 43, wherein the enclosure is made waterproof by a front separator, and a rear separator that seals the enclosure from the front end and rear end, the bottom elongated wall that seals the enclosure from the bottom, and a cover configured to allow accessibility to the one or more battery modules housed within the enclosure.