Next modular pods will be tested by on-demand transit provider Wayla in Milan

Next Modular Vehicles‘ electric pods (set to be manufactured, starting this year, in the Tecnobus factory) will be tested by on-demand transit van provider Wayla in Milan, that started operation in late 2024.

In mid-December 2024 Next presented the generation of its modular pod for passenger transportation. It will be in production starting in 2025 in the Tecnobus factories, close to Rome. Also the collaboration with Wayla was announced during the same event.

Next modular pods on a trial with Wayla

In the name of modularity, the Next capsules can operate as a single ‘wagon’ or connect to other modules according to real-time transport demand. During peak hours, the vehicle can connect to other ‘pods’ to cope with increased demand. During less congested hours, the configuration can adapt to a shorter and lighter trim, optimising energy use and planning for future demand.

The vehicle configuration for Wayla’s fleet will allow the transport of nine seated passengers plus driver. In addition, there will be a 900-litre interior cargo compartment for bags and luggage. The configurations set to be used by Wayla are named Next Vision MaaS and Next Vision Lounge.

Next startup is the creator of a three-meter-long module (which we tested in the previous version) with the aim of revolutionizing the concept of mobility. In the name of modularity: the Next capsules can function as a single “wagon” or connect to other modules based on real-time transport demand. During peak hours, the vehicle can connect to other “pods” to cope with increased demand.