Pedal

Case Study
React NativeSocialAutomotive
Our Methodology

Overview & Process

1

Design

Crafted an image-centric interface with familiar social interactions that was visually distinct from existing platforms.
2

Development

Built the iOS app with photo-first social features, feed algorithms, and engagement mechanics tailored to the automotive community.
3

Launch

Shipped the MVP to the App Store targeting car enthusiasts with a curated early-adopter community.
4

Maintenance

Ongoing iteration based on user feedback—refining the social experience and scaling infrastructure as the community grew.

Our Challenges

Bootstrapped Startup Needs Quick Launch

Our client wanted to launch simultaneously on iOS and Android. We also needed to be mindful of their budget and leave room for updates and improvements after launch.

Consolidate Frontend Code

We employed React Native so we could use one codebase for both iOS & Android instead of building two separate frontends

Let Design Drive

Pedal is a visual-first product that allows the user generated content to live within a branded interface

Long Term Relationship

We have continued to support Pedal for 4+ years, keeping up as technology advances and making sure the code is current

Our Solutions

A Distinct Experience

We dove straight into designing high-fidelity screens, since most of the app’s UX structure would be similar to existing apps.

Attention Grabbing Visuals

Our team worked to give visual movement to the interface by using slanted lines instead of right angles, while drawing inspiration from stock photos of both classic cars and modern automotive masterpieces.

Bringing Our Client's Vision to Life

We used car and driving-related iconography along with bright, eye popping colors and an in-app photo and video camera. With the users in mind, we created the ability to “rev” posts - a function that gives users the ability to post three levels of positive feedback: tap once for yellow, twice for orange, and three times for red.

Push Social Engagement

For the Discover portion of the app, we displayed some hashtags from the posts, to encourage users to browse makes, models, or events within the app - ultimately creating a one-of-a-kind experience for the users. We also made it easy to send users push notifications about local events for car enthusiasts.

Multiplatform Availability

We were excited for the opportunity to leverage React's flexibility during its early days (2016). We used one codebase for most of the app, and then branched off into native code for features such as the device camera functionality.