CC0 Vehicle Design Project
Vehicles don't have to cost $40 000 for a basic model when CC0 vehicles can be made using common materials and methods. Right to Repair to the maximum possible extent.
The Cheapest Vehicle on the Market
With an adaptable supply line and simplified processes of manufacturing, this vehicle can avoid the bottlenecks of modern vehicle manufacturing while providing basic transportation at the lowest possible cost of operation. It may be possible to build for less than $3000, bill of materials coming soon.
Guidelines for Basic CC0 Vehicle Design
Accessibility: Common tools and materials only
Modularity: Replaceable systems and cross-compatible parts
Openness: Avoid proprietary hardware or software
Simplicity: Flat panels, visible fasteners, easy maintenance
Hybrid Power: Generator-electric with common engines & car batteries
Standard Parts: Common tire sizes, printable small parts
Democracy: CC0 designs & data for anyone to use or produce
Longevity: Repair, upgrade, never obsolete
Utilitarianism: Minimalist, durable design
Ethics: Outperform corporations through open collaboration
Generator Electric Drive or Conventional Fuel
The lowest cost of operation can be achieved with a generator electric drivetrain. The generator is able to run at optimal RPM to maximize lifespan, while reducing the need for on-board batteries. It enables the platform to use car batteries that you can find in any auto parts shop. If you want the cheapest possible engine you can remove one from an old vehicle. This is not currently legal in Canada for a vehicle manufacturer to install this drivetrain according to Environment Canada, but for all of your utility vehicles that don't necessarily go on public roads - this is a possible integration. It may be legal for individuals to install this setup, but don't quote me on that. Before the ministry gives you a ticket, make sure its legal for where you are and what you want to do with it.
Autonomous Utility Vehicle Platforms
These designs below may be suitable for automation-assisted deliveries, with potential for coded lockers like they have at Amazon pickup locations. In the vehicle on the right, the blue utility van, I would centre the steering wheel in the vehicle and make more room for storage in the side doors. They both assume full, reliable self driving technology.
Full CC0 Vehicle Design Standards
Accessibility of Methods and Materials
All fabrication and assembly methods must use common tools and materials found globally.
No rare, specialized, or proprietary processes are permitted.
Vehicles must be buildable and repairable in small workshops or garages with standard tools.
Modularity and Interchangeability
Every system (frame, body, electrical, drivetrain, interior) must be modular and easily replaced.
Components must be cross-compatible across CC0 vehicle variants.
Open Standards and Replaceable Dependencies
No proprietary software or hardware.
All software must run on open, auditable firmware and community-supported hardware.
Every dependency must be easy to replace.
Structural Simplicity and Maintainability
Use flat panels wherever possible (including glass) to minimize cost and simplify fabrication.
Exterior fasteners: stainless steel bolts as standard for all external components.
Use straightforward mechanical assemblies that can be serviced without specialized tools.
Powertrain Philosophy
Generator-electric hybrid system (similar to Toyota Prius architecture) for optimal efficiency.
Engine acts solely as a generator, powering an electric drive via a battery array.
Engine must use widely available gasoline or diesel.
Select an engine whose parts are stocked at Canadian Tire or equivalent (common, domestic, mass-produced engines).
Wheel, Tire, and Component Standardization
Tires and wheels must be the most common market sizes for maximum availability.
Small components should be 3D printable and available as downloadable CC0 .STL files.
Any non-printable component must be sourced from local, cross-border manufacturers (Toyota qualifies under this principle).
Democratic, Open Manufacturing
Vehicle design and production data must be released under CC0 (public domain).
This enables anyone, anywhere to participate in production without permission.
The design must allow small-scale decentralized manufacturers to operate under “small vehicle manufacturer” laws — reducing regulatory burden and entry cost.
Longevity and Anti-Obsolescence
Design for maximum lifespan — no planned obsolescence.
Components must be repairable, replaceable, or upgradable individually.
Economic model assumes eventual market saturation, where replacement is not profit-driven but community-sustained.
Utilitarian Aesthetic
Minimalist, functional design — prioritize performance, efficiency, and durability over aesthetics.
Fewer features = fewer failure points = longer lifespan and lower cost.
Economic and Ethical Foundation
The CC0 Vehicle must prove that decentralized, open manufacturing can outperform corporate monopolies.
It should cost less to build and operate than any commercial vehicle in its class.
Built by the people, for the people, with no gatekeeping, licensing, or control mechanisms.
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