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Project Opel D49: Drive into the future

Posted May 26, 2009

Could a futuristic car without wheels and that uses electro-magnetic power be our new green status symbol? This new vehicle runs 10cm above the ground fueled by electro-magnetic power and can also double up James Bond style as a submarine.

Designed by Augustin Barbot, a 25 year old French student designer during a three month work experience stint at General Motors European Design Centre in Rüsselsheim - his Project “Opel D49” is an innovative idea that could in theory revolutionize the whole concept of mobile vehicles.

Winning first prize in a competition sponsored by General Motors Europe (Opel is of one of the group's brands), the prize was presented at the UK's Royal College of Art (RCA) Vehicle Design course, where 19 students, from 11 different countries submitted entries of their visions on the future of mobility and how it might look like 40 years from now.

Developed with three turbines, two at the front and one at the back, Augustin Barbot's design produces its own energy in order to move the vehicle forward. It's body consists of an aluminum frame covered by a semi-flexible and clear waterproof resin, eliminating the need for body panels.

Mentioned and given commendations from the jury (and invited to meet GM Design Team) were designers Hyunjoon Park and Miika Heikkinen.

South Korean designer Hyunjoon Park’s concept is a body shape vehicle where a human form and a car become one, thanks to a new vehicle shape that is adhesive to the driver's body.


Miika's project entitled Opel Flow, has a zero emission single seat for cities that, thanks to its new aesthetic inspired by the light patterns created by a camera's long shutter speed and marine creatures. The vehicle becomes a place to rest as well as a part of the cityscape.

 

Giuliano Federico

Source: www.thedesignblog.org

 

TAGS: general motors european design centre royal college of art miika heikkinen hyunjoon park opel d49 augustin barbot james bond car vehicle hyunjoon park opel flow rüsselsheim design