General Motors have inaugurated an advanced design center in Royal Leamington Spa, United Kingdom, expanding its global creation network. The opening was marked by the unveiling of a futuristic Chevrolet Corvette prototype, developed by the British team in a global project and from a clean sheet.
The studio also presented a glimpse of a future GMC concept, currently under development in collaboration with the Detroit design team, with its presentation scheduled for this year.
This investment underscores GM's commitment to Europe, at a crucial time of expansion for its Cadillac electric vehicle range and preparation for the highly anticipated commercial launch of the Corvette in the UK and mainland Europe. The British studio, led by Julian Thomson, integrates GM's global network, bringing European insights and new talents. The facilities in Royal Leamington Spa, with a generous area of over 2,200 square meters, house a multidisciplinary team of more than 30 designers and creatives.
Michael Simcoe, VP of Global Design, highlights that the studio aims to imagine the future of mobility and drive innovation. The Corvette concept explores new design frontiers without production intent. Several studios created conceptual hypercars, honoring the Corvette's DNA with unique interpretations.
The British concept merges the Corvette heritage with a futuristic aesthetic, inspired by aviation.
"One of the most unique and striking aspects of our concept's design is a feature we've named Apex Vision," explains Thomson. "A tribute to the Corvette's centerline focus, and inspired by the iconic 'split window' of the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray, this element emphasizes a singular vertical central spine that simultaneously functions as a structural element, providing a panoramic view of the road and the surrounding environment."
The exterior design is divided between an upper section that evokes the classic Corvette in a futuristic way and a lower section focused on technique, with an integrated EV battery and efficient aerodynamics without spoilers.
Concept Highlights:
This prototype demonstrates GM's vision for the future of automotive design, challenging conventions and exploring new possibilities.
- Structure: Additive manufacturing for lightness and efficiency.
- Design: "Apex Vision" with a panoramic central spine.
- Aerodynamics: Optimization of airflow with "Aero-Duality" for road and track.
- Chassis: Competition-inspired pushrod suspension.
This prototype demonstrates GM's vision for the future of automotive design, challenging conventions and exploring new possibilities.