Case Study: Arcimoto achieves a safer, optimized SRK Fun Utility Vehicle with Altair HyperWorks simulation

Originating a safe Fun Utility Vehicle (FUV)

Arcimoto, maker of the all‑electric SRK Generation 8 Fun Utility Vehicle (FUV), faced the challenge of delivering a stable three‑wheeled platform with a protective space‑frame enclosure and an aesthetically round tubular rear swing arm — all on a startup budget while meeting rigorous safety expectations (including roof‑crush criteria). To address these constraints, Arcimoto turned to Altair and its simulation toolset.

Altair supplied HyperMesh for rapid model generation, OptiStruct for structural analysis, and RADIOSS for dynamic roof‑crush simulation, enabling Arcimoto to validate the tubular swing‑arm design, iterate on roll‑cage layouts, and compare multiple thicknesses against a 3× vehicle‑weight roof‑crush baseline. The Altair workflow delivered repeatable, accurate results, reduced simulation cycle times, and gave Arcimoto the data and confidence to improve safety, stiffness and manufacturability while accelerating design decisions.

Arcimoto

Stephanie Moore-Fuller

Mechanical Engineer, Vehicle Structure And Safety