The complexion of concept vehicles by influential automotive makers is shifting towards futuristic designs, inside out. GM China reiterates the fact with its Buick Electra Orbit, which is a design study inspired by the 1950s space-age influence. The shooting brake inspiration in this electric concept is obvious, with an elongated rear and a huge bonnet.
The design elements, such as the metallic silver paint (known as Space) of the concept, are adopted from the classic jet aircrafts, as well as Buick’s own vehicles from the mid-20th century. The electric vehicle developed by the GM China Advanced Design Center is almost 9.6 feet (6.0 meters) long and over 6.6 feet (2.0 meters) wide. This makes it comparable to the Chevrolet Suburban, which is quite a sizeable vehicle. The futuristic car has both manual and fully automated modes, both of which have their distinct interior dynamics.
Designer:
Buick Electra Orbit extends its classic design influence stance with the low-slung front section and a wide central body, giving it a distinct intimidating appeal. This domineer is complemented by the disk-shaped 24-inch diameter wheels encapsulated by the uniquely shaped fenders. The four scissor-styled doors open like on a gull-winged supercar, giving the riders more space to get in or out of the car. Like in most electric cars, this one has storage space in the front trunk with space for luggage, and it opens up via a dual-pivot system. Coming back to the Space color, it enhances the aerodynamic curves of the vehicle in environmental tones depending on the lighting conditions. One thing that is a bit of a put-off is the small side mirrors, which could have had an equally impressive presence. That said, I’m just nitpicking from a critical point of view.
According to Stuart Norris, vice president of design for GM China, “By reinterpreting space-age motifs and pushing electric-architecture freedoms, we wanted to create a concept that feels both familiar in its Buick DNA and thrillingly new.” On the rear of the Electra Orbit, there are deployable wings that move up and down depending on the speed and the handling dynamics of the vehicle set by the driver. They provide the desired drag and downforce to keep the car stable. On the inside, this performance electric vehicle seats four people in a 2+2 configuration, which focuses on wormhole inspired interface. For riders who want to drive in manual mode, a humble ball-shaped controller takes the driving input. The driver can control the vehicle functions from the massive Ring like arch-shaped display that runs from one end to the other. Unlike other dual-mode cars, the Electra doesn’t have disappearing steering wheel and pedal controls that we’ve seen in other futuristic concepts.
GM hasn’t detailed any of the car’s specifications, other than that it runs on the company’s dedicated EV platform. Nor has the company given any details about a prototype under wraps, or, most unlikely, production plans. I’m pretty sure it will remain a concept and be an inspiration for other automotive designers. Interestingly, a by the same name came up a few years and it could be a mere coincidence.
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