DO4
Style and Versatility
Deep Orange 4
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About
Introducing Deep Orange 4
The CU-ICAR Deep Orange 4 project is based on the BMW X3 and is defined as a versatile vehicle that targets the niche market of performance oriented SUV customers who want both best in class utility/space and an aggressive sporty design.
The unique selling proposition (USP) of the concept combines BMW brand DNA with a unique transformative design. In addition, a cost-efficient manufacturing plan was developed which details how this low-volume derivative could be assembled without negatively impacting existing BMW production processes.
BMW Manufacturing Co. Partnership
BMW Manufacturing Co and CUICAR collaborated to create the Deep Orange 4.
A Transformative Concept
BMW Manufacturing Co and CU-ICARs Department of Automotive Engineering teamed up to create a 2 in 1 product for a niche market.
Time-Lapse of Deep Orange 4
DO4 spanned a two year period and is an integral part of Clemson’s Department of Automotive Engineering Masters and PhD curriculum.
Sliding Roof
The sliding glass roof provides one of the largest openings of all competitive SUVs, transforming the trunk compartment from an enclosed area into an open-bed configuration with the utility of a pick-up truck. The roof was engineered to integrate the BMW X3 panoramic roof module into the existing vehicle body structure and, in combination with glass over the passenger compartment with sporty styling, results in a seamless overall vehicle design.
Rear Doors
To enable access to the open trunk space for larger cargo, the rear hatch in the BMW X3 was replaced by two doors which open using a unique hinge mechanism that both functional and aesthetic. In addition, the tailgate houses the retractable part of the panoramic roof.
Rapid Prototype Parts
Instead of using traditional metal parts and die technology, the build of the entire upper part of the prototype vehicle was completed using 3D rapid prototype FDM parts from Redeye on Demand. The Deep Orange 4 project was the 1st application of rapid prototyping at CU-ICAR.
Partners
Deep Orange 4 Partners
The following organizations have provided generous support, in-kind contributions and talented human resources to achieve the objectives of Deep Orange 4.
Students
The Next Generation of Automotive Engineers & Innovators
Deep Orange 4 Gallery
The Deep Orange 4 vehicle project was officially kicked off in September 2011 with major sponsorship from BMW Manufacturing Co. and three of its tier-I suppliers: Drive Automotive Industries, Spartanburg Steel Products Inc. and Gestamp South Carolina LLC. Over a span of two years, the Deep Orange 4 project covered the full spectrum of vehicle development, including benchmarking, concept execution, detailing, design (exterior and components), engineering and build of the prototype vehicle. A few of the vehicle’s key moments were captured and are featured to the right.
