Clemson University's International Center for
Automotive Research has unveiled the Deep Orange 7 MINI concept. The latest in
a long line of Deep Orange concepts, the model was created by 18 students as
part of the university's two-year master’s program in automotive engineering.
Envisioned as a MINI for 2025 or later, the Deep
Orange 7 features a unique exterior which was developed with the ArtCenter
College of Design in Pasadena, California. While the styling may not appease everyone,
the university says the process of working with another school gave engineering
and design students the "opportunity to collaborate just as they would in
a real-world design studio."
The interior is relatively sparse as it features a
handful of seats and a floating dashboard which houses a "personal virtual
companion" called MINI Face. More than just a pint-sized Templeton Peck,
the MINI Face anticipates the needs of the driver and presents relevant
information on a holographic display which has multiple layers. The system also
features hand gesture recognition technology.
The innovation doesn't stop there as the students
developed a scalable powertrain which enables the model to use an internal
combustion engine, a plug-in hybrid powertrain, or electric drive unit. The
concept is equipped with the second option and features electric cooling motors
which are located inside the rocker panel.
According to BMW's Julian Weber, “Working with the
students as a mentor in the Deep Orange 7 project was a wonderful experience.
They worked really hard and showed creativity and professionalism at the same
time."
