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Product design — examples of industrial product concepts Industrial design — vehicle and product surfaces 3D modeling and visualization Animation and motion design Motion design and film Graphic design samples Virtual reality presentations (VR) Web and app UI design Front-end development examples Interior design and cabin layouts
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Hello.

I'm Jakub Vlkavec, an industrial and product designer based in the Czech Republic.

Focused on designing real-world transport and industrial products, combining design, engineering thinking, and visualization into cohesive, production-ready solutions. The work connects concept development, technical understanding, and visual communication into a consistent process — from early exploration to final implementation, with a strong emphasis on feasibility, clarity, and long-term value.

Experience includes leading complex design projects where alignment between design intent, engineering constraints, and production requirements is essential. This approach enables the creation of products that are visually compelling, functional, and ready for real-world use. Visualization and storytelling play a key role — using high-end 3D visuals, animation, and immersive tools to support decision-making and communicate products clearly.

The goal is to create design that goes beyond aesthetics — shaping products that work as complete systems and bring lasting value through thoughtful, well-integrated solutions.

Media.

Služby.

| Product & Transport Design

Concept development from initial sketches to technically grounded product proposals, with a focus on real-world feasibility and production readiness.

| Concept Development & Design Strategy

Early-stage exploration and definition of product direction, helping teams shape clear, viable, and consistent design concepts.

| End-to-End Design Leadership

Leading the full design process — from concept and development to visualization and production support — ensuring consistency, clarity, and alignment across all stages.

| Design Integration & Cross-Functional Collaboration

Bridging design, engineering, and product teams to align design intent with technical feasibility and project goals.

| Design for Decision-MakingDesign for Decision-Making

Creating visual outputs and design assets that support internal reviews, stakeholder alignment, and product validation.

| Design Visualization & Storytelling

High-end 3D visualizations, animations, and narratives that communicate design intent and enhance product understanding.

| Immersive & Real-Time Experiences (VR)

Real-time environments and virtual experiences for realistic product evaluation and communication.

| Additional Capabilities

Product Presentation & Communication, Graphic design, web and app design.

PROJECTS
tram mainz

| 53T - FC Smart

Tram for Mainz, Germany

The Škoda 53T tram for Mainz represents a new generation of urban transport vehicles, designed to meet increasing demands for capacity, accessibility, and long-term operational efficiency. The project required a comprehensive design approach, balancing technical constraints, passenger experience, and a clear, contemporary visual identity.

As Lead Designer, responsible for the exterior, interior, and driver’s cabin, the goal was to create a cohesive product where all elements work together as a unified system — from first visual impression to everyday operation. The design process was closely integrated with engineering, product, and project teams to ensure alignment between design intent, technical feasibility, and production requirements.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Plzeň, Czech Republic

Client:

Mainzer Mobilität

Location:

Mainz, Germany

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec (Design Lead)

exterior design mainz exterior design mainz

The exterior design is built around clarity, robustness, and strong visual identity. The front of the vehicle is developed in accordance with pedestrian safety requirements, while maintaining a clean and approachable character. Safety systems, including anti-collision technologies, are seamlessly integrated into the design without disrupting its visual clarity. Modern lighting elements enhance both visibility and recognizability, contributing to a confident presence within the urban environment.

At the same time, the vehicle’s color scheme and graphic layout are carefully aligned with the existing fleet of the operator, ensuring visual continuity while introducing a contemporary refinement. The overall proportions and surface treatment are designed to handle the complexity of a long multi-section vehicle, maintaining consistency and readability across its full length.

Large panoramic windows play a key role in the overall experience, providing increased daylight, better orientation within the city, and a stronger visual connection between the interior and the urban environment.

tram interior mainz tram interior mainz

The interior is conceived as a fully low-floor, open, and highly accessible space, focused on passenger comfort and intuitive use. A minimalist design language is combined with warm material accents, including wood-based seat detailing and upholstered elements, creating a balanced and welcoming atmosphere.

Particular attention is given to cleanliness and long-term usability. The design minimizes hidden corners, gaps, and inaccessible areas, reducing the accumulation of dirt and waste while simplifying maintenance. Spatial organization supports smooth passenger flow, with clearly defined zones and unobstructed movement throughout the vehicle.

The driver’s cabin is developed with a focus on ergonomics, visibility, and operational clarity, supporting safe and efficient control of the vehicle in demanding urban conditions.

The result is a fully integrated tram design that combines technical precision, passenger comfort, and a strong visual identity — contributing to the future development of Mainz’s public transport system.

exterior design mainz exterior design mainz exterior design mainz exterior design mainz exterior design mainz
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| 49T - FC Classic

Tram for Bergamo, Italy

The Škoda 49T tram for the city of Bergamo represents a contemporary urban transport solution that combines advanced technology with a sensitive approach to the historic urban context. The design responds to the need for a high-capacity, fully accessible vehicle with a strong focus on passenger comfort, while respecting the character and visual identity of the city.

As Lead Designer, responsible for both the exterior and interior, the goal was to create a cohesive design language that connects technical solutions, user experience, and visual quality into a unified product. The design process was carried out in close collaboration with technical, product, and commercial teams, ensuring that the final proposal is not only visually compelling but also fully feasible and ready for production.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

Client:

Tramvie Elettriche Bergamasche

Location:

Bergamo, Italy

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec (Design Lead - exterior and interior design), Šárka Masojídková (drivers cabin design)

portolio

The exterior design is defined by clarity, balanced proportions, and a calm visual expression that allows the vehicle to integrate naturally into Bergamo’s historic environment. The front design subtly incorporates safety and technical elements, maintaining a clean and approachable character while establishing a confident presence. The overall design reflects the complexity of a long multi-section vehicle, ensuring visual consistency across its entire length.

A key aspect of the design is the integration of modern technologies, including passenger information systems, air conditioning, and advanced safety features such as an anti-collision system. These elements are incorporated in a way that supports functionality without compromising the visual clarity of the design.

portolio
exterior design bergamo exterior design bergamo
interior design bergamo interior design bergamo

The interior is conceived as a fully low-floor, open, and intuitively readable space, supporting smooth passenger flow and maximum accessibility. The layout responds to a wide range of user needs, including passengers with reduced mobility. Materials, colors, and lighting create a clear and comfortable environment suitable for everyday operation.

From a technical perspective, the vehicle is designed as a bi-directional, multi-section unit with bogie configuration optimized for efficient operation in an urban environment. The fully low-floor solution ensures barrier-free boarding and contributes to overall usability.

The result is a contemporary tram that combines modern transport technology with a design approach that respects the historical context of the city — creating a high-quality and sustainable solution for urban mobility.

VR Mock-up

The virtual mockup created for the tram in the city of Bergamo offers a unique experience that combines visual presentation with practical design validation. Within the simulation, the driver can test the reachability of control elements, visibility from the cabin, and the functionality of rearview mirrors. Passengers can freely explore the interior, check the accessibility of the restraint system, and experience the design and views from inside the tram. The experience includes interactive features such as opening doors, teleporting to different positions, and returning to the driver’s seat. The exterior design of the tram can also be viewed while the vehicle is stationed at a stop.

This VR mockup serves not only as an impressive presentation tool for clients, drivers, and the general public, but also as a functional prototype for verifying ergonomic and design accuracy. The mockup was developed in Unreal Engine 5.


(Note: Image quality has been reduced for web optimization – in the actual VR headset, the visual quality is significantly higher.)

exterior design bergamo skoda exterior design bergamo skoda exterior design bergamo skoda exterior design bergamo skoda exterior design bergamo skoda
interior design bergamo skoda interior design bergamo skoda interior design bergamo skoda interior design bergamo skoda interior design bergamo skoda
portolio

| TRAM M31

Modernisation of the Tram

The modernization of the M31 tram for the city of Gothenburg represents a sensitive intervention into an iconic public transport vehicle, aimed at extending its service life while preserving its recognizable visual identity. The project required a careful balance between respect for the original design and the integration of contemporary technological and operational requirements.

As an exterior designer, I contributed to the visual redevelopment of the vehicle, with the goal of maintaining its characteristic appearance while elevating it to current standards of quality, comfort, and safety. The design process was carried out in close collaboration with engineering and development teams, ensuring that all proposed changes were fully compatible with the existing vehicle structure.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Ostrava, Czech Republic

Client:

Västtrafik

Location:

Gothenburg, Sweden

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec, Tomáš Chludil, Michal Gábriž

M31

The foundation of the design process was precise 3D data derived from detailed scans of the original vehicles. This enabled an accurate understanding of the existing construction and ensured that all design interventions were grounded in real-world conditions.

The exterior design focuses on subtle yet meaningful refinements that enhance the overall visual quality without disrupting the original character of the tram. Modern elements such as updated lighting systems, new doors, air conditioning units, and additional technical components are carefully integrated into the existing structure, creating a cohesive and contemporary appearance.

An important aspect of the project was also the improvement of passenger comfort and safety. The modernization introduces a higher standard of usability and aligns the vehicle with current expectations for urban public transport. The project represents a balanced combination of precise redesign, technical accuracy, and respect for the original concept. The result is a vehicle that retains its iconic identity while meeting modern requirements for functionality, safety, and visual quality.

M31
M31
exterior design m31 exterior design m31
exterior design m31 exterior design m31
M31

| Arriva Express

Presentation video of the train unit

The presentation video of the Arriva Express train unit was created for the company Arriva, based on 3D data processed in Unreal Engine 5. The project included the development of a storyboard, scene design, model animation, and the setup of lighting and cameras. It also involved final editing and color post-production. The aim was to create a visually engaging piece to showcase the vehicle in a neutral environment.

I was responsible for the complete production of the video - storyboard, scene design, animation, camera, postproduction etc.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Ostrava, Czech Republic

Client:

Arriva

Location:

Czech Republic

Design team:

Tomáš Růžička (Exterior design), Kryštof David (Interior design), HMS Design (Vehicle graphics and color design), Jakub Vlkavec (Video production)

| 50T - FC Smart

Presentation video of the tram

The presentation video of the tram 50T was created for the company KVG, based on 3D data processed in Unreal Engine 5. The project included the development of a storyboard, scene design, model animation, and the setup of lighting and cameras. It also involved final editing and color post-production. The aim was to create a visually engaging piece to showcase the vehicle in a neutral environment.

I was responsible for the complete production of the video - storyboard, scene design, animation, camera, postproduction etc.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

Client:

Kasseler Verkehrs-Gesellschaft (KVG)

Location:

Kassel, Germany

Design team:

Michal Gábriž (Exterior and interior design), Šárka Masojídková (Drivers cabin design), Jakub Vlkavec (Video production)

| VR SHOWSTREET

Virtual reality - VR tour

This project was developed for Škoda Group primarily to showcase their vehicles. Users have the opportunity to step into a virtual environment where they can explore and experience vehicles in life-size detail – all from the comfort of their home or office. All it takes is putting on a headset.

In the virtual showroom, you can freely walk through the interior and exterior of the vehicles, gaining a realistic impression of their design, functionality, and technology. Our solution includes interactive features that simulate the typical usage and behavior of the vehicles.

Created in Unreal Engine


ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

| DESIGNER PORTFOLIO

Visual identity

This project serves to showcase my skills in web design, visual identity creation, and coding. For my own presentation purposes, I designed a complete visual identity that includes a website, portfolio, business cards, and other printed materials.

Web je nakódován mnou v HTML, CSS a základů JavaScriptu s pomocí AI.

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portolio
portolio portfolio cards
tram_bonn

| 41T - FC Smart

Tram for Bonn, Germany

Tram ForCity Smart Bonn is the newest member of the SWB vehicle fleet. A modern and fully low-floor vehicle with pivoting bogies was designed specially for the city of Bonn and respects its unique visual identity. The structure and the shaping of the tram head increases the safety for the driver and pedestrians. The characteristic shaping of lights on the black mask gives the vehicle a positive and distinctive look.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

Client:

SWB Bus und Bahn

In-house design:

Tomáš Chludil, Jakub Vlkavec, Šárka Masojídková, Tomáš Růžička, Denisa Milotová, Kryštof David

tram_bonn tram_bonn tram_bonn

The interior, equipped with comfortable upholstered wooden seats, creates a pleasant atmosphere and provides an enjoyable journey. Removable pillows and compact shape of the seat ensure easy maintenance and long durability. Wide LED-highlighted entrances and large multifunctional areas are helping to improve the travel experience for passengers with various needs. Driver’s cabin was also developed, together with local drivers achieving the highest ergonomic and safety standards.

tram bonn tram bonn
tram bonn design tram bonn design
tram bonn design tram bonn design
autonomous_tram

| SATRAM

Concept of autonomous tram

Collaboration on a concept of a segmented modular autonomous tram developed by the department of Design and development. This project shows the vision for the future of the public transportation.

These segments are used for dynamically controlled transportation which are able to change their capacity when needed. This is done by using a single segment or linking multiple segments together.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec (exterior design), Šárka Masojídková (interior design)

autonomous_tram autonomous_tram autonomous_tram
autonomous_tram

The interior can be adapted to the various needs of passengers or the transportation company. An open space without a driver’s cab with a large front window offers a new driving experience for passangers. And thanks to easily removable interior part, it is also possible to use the vehicle for a delivery service.

My responsibility was the design of the exterior, the principles of the delivery system and tram station functions considering city urban planning. Also considering the communication between vehicles, pessangers and pedestrians. I work closely with the technical, product and development department.

autonomous_tram

| SABUS

Concept of autonomous bus

This project was created simultaneously with the previous project.

In this case it is future vision of the autonomous bus. These segments are used for dynamically controlled transportation which are able to change their capacity when needed. This is done by using a single segment or linking multiple segments together.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec (exterior design), Šárka Masojídková (interior design)

autonomous_bus

The interior can be adapted to the various needs of passengers or the transportation company. An open space without a driver’s cab with a large front window offers a new driving experience for passangers. And thanks to easily removable interior part, it is also possible to use the vehicle for a delivery service.

My responsibility was the design of the exterior, maintaing the continuation of corporate vizual identyty of vehicles ŠKODA GROUP. I work closely with the technical, product and development department.

autonomous_bus autonomous_bus
goa3 goa3

| TRAM VISION GOA3

Concept of semi-autonomous tram

This vehicle present another step that will bring us closer to autonomous driving vehicles. It is a step between todays vehicles and fully autonomous one.

This autonomous tram with a steward can visually and audibly communicate with the environment around it. It brings the passengers necessary road information as well as additional information about the vehicle and still offers security and familiarity thanks to the presence of a steward who controls the operation of the vehicle.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec (exterior design), Kryštof David (interior design)

GOA3

Vehicle is connected to the infrastructure of the city and can operate as efficiently as needed. The next step that comes after this is fully autonomous vehicle operating without driver or steward. My responsibility was the design of the exterior and cooperation with technical, product and development department on future vision of the semi-autonomous tram vehicle.

tram_brno

| TRAM 45T

Tram for Brno, Czechia

Modern two-way, three-link and 100% low-floor vehicles with rotating chassis. The vehicle is made for the comfort of passengers with reliable driving characteristics. Tram 45T is developed for the Czech city Brno. Design and vehicle layout is based on ŠKODA Group technologies which meets the customers requirements.

My responsibility was the design of the exterior and interior cooperation with technical, product and bid engeneering department, finding and developing the best technical and vizual solution.

Manufacturer:

ŠKODA Group, Pilsen, Czech Republic

Client:

DPMB: Dopravní podnik města Brna

Location:

Brno, Czech Republic

In-house design team:

Jakub Vlkavec, Tomáš Chludil, Šárka Masojídková

exterior design 45t
exterior design 45t
exterior design 45t
exterior design 45t

| RESPIRATOR R2.0

Healthcare & Industry

The respirator is designed for an easy daily use. It combined a silicone body, three plastic frames for changeable filtres. The whole design is simple, clear, and customizable for any color combination based on the respirator use.


Cooperation with 3Dmons and ČZU v Praze (2020).

autonomous_vehicle_neat autonomous_vehicle_neat autonomous_vehicle_neat

| NE-A-T

Autonomous vehicle

Design of the interior and exterior concept of an autonomous car. Concept is laid on developments and trends in the automotive industry, car sharing, barrier-free transport and connectivity.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2020)

Diploma thesis, Read more HERE.

| AUTONOMOUS MOBILE PLATFORM

Mobile industrial robots - Industrie 4.0

The mobile platform is designed with current autonomous technology, production technology, automated production, and safety. The design concept includes the production and shaping of metal profiles and sheets, the concept of the supporting structure and also the communication of the autonomous vehicle with a pedestrian. For communication with a pedestrian are used an LED light strip and four projectors. The platforms are also modular, they can be united behind or next to each other. This allows greater load capacity.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2019)

This project is personal and has nothing to do with ABB and KUKA in particular.

| LEKSELL GAMMA KNIFE

Healthcare

Gamma knife using Gamma radiation to treat the tumor cells especially in brain. Iť‘s designed to show one of many ways in design mecical devices. Gamma knife is composed of a radiation unit, positionable bed and build-in CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography).


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2018)

This project is personal and has nothing to do with Elekta in particular.

bitcoin_mat bitcoin_mat bitcoin_mat

| BITCOIN ATM CONCEPT 1.0

Designed for WBTCB company

This bitcoin ATM is designed according to standards of WBTCB company, based on safety, technical and ergonomical parameters of bankomats and keep visual indentity of the company. Design is untraditional and elegant, with an emphasis on barrier-free acces. Its advantage is also in simple servise acceses and simple maintenance of inner components. Bitcoin ATM is bi-directional, so you can deposit and take money from it. All active parts are clearly marked. A part, which is used or waiting for a clients actions uses a backlight.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2018)

Cooperation: WBTCB

| BEAM X-RAY

Portable X-ray unit

The Bachelor thesis deals with the design of portable veterinary X-ray. Emphasis is laid on ergonomics and recent trends in the sphere of design of medical products. The consideration is also given to the affordability of the designed X-ray and its price comparability with currently offered X-ray machines on the market. The designed X-ray machine features innovations in control and grip, and from the design point of view it connects a wide range of fields which deal with this theme. Its design can be used in the product family.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2018)

Bachelor thesis

chiro chiro chiro chiro

| CHIRO +

Oral Surgery & Implantology

The device is mostly used for the jaw, implantology, micro, and small bone surgeries. The dental unit is composed of a display, an integrated tank with a cooling liquid, a handpiece with an electric motor connected to the unit by a cable and a pedal. The whole unit was designed to compact the shape of the unit, with simple but functional geometric.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2017)

exit_monitor exit_monitor exit_monitor exit_monitor

| EXITMonitor

Contamination monitoring (Cooperation with VF NUCLEAR

Design of atwo-step, full body contamination monitor for personnel leaving controlled areas. The monitor checks for presence of alphfa, beta, and gamma radionuclides.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Tvarůžek (2017)

Cooperation: VF NUCLEAR

bujaqu

| BUJAQU

Speakers 2.0

High quality speakers 2.0 with unique design are made from maple wood.


FA CTU - Industrial design, Studio Streit (2017)

Cooperation: DEXON

| Let’s work together.

Contact me:

info@jakubvlkavec.com
+420 604 583 230