Supercar System: Redefining Customization in the Automotive Industry

A Revolutionary Approach to Design and Performance

The traditional approach to car manufacturing involves customers purchasing pre-ordained models from auto makers, which often become obsolete within a few years. The Supercar System disrupts this model by allowing customers to customize their vehicles to their heart's content. Whether it's performance upgrades, styling changes, or budgetary considerations, customers have the freedom to tailor their vehicles to their exact specifications.

One of the key advantages of the Supercar System is its sustainability. Customers can upgrade their vehicles as much or as little as they need, reducing unnecessary waste. Moreover, they can subsidize their purchases by reselling their older components to the system's enthusiast community, giving them a second life.

Operating costs are also significantly reduced with the Supercar System. Despite its high-performance capabilities, the system costs no more to run than a typical family sedan. Servicing is available at over 20,000 GM dealers, ensuring convenience and accessibility for customers.

The heart of the Supercar System lies in its innovative chassis design. Combining lightweight materials, rigidity, parts consolidation, and human factors considerations, the chassis provides a safe and high-performance foundation for the vehicle. With over 72 patent claims pending, the system is a testament to the designer's ingenuity and commitment to invention.

Technical specifications of the Supercar System include a carbon fiber composite body available in silver, black, or GRP metallic grey. The chassis, a carbon tub/chromoly exoskeleton, meets FIA standards and ensures a dry weight ranging from 1,980lb to 2,200lb (900kg to 1,000kg) depending on the configuration. The overall size of the vehicle is 160" in length, 79" in width, and 45.5" in height.

The Supercar System is not just a vehicle; it's an experience. The driving dynamics are finely tuned to provide a direct connection between the driver and the machine. Steering and pedal effort, as well as gear changes, are designed to bring joy and a sense of accomplishment to the art of driving. Electronic safety aids are present but intrude minimally, allowing drivers to fully immerse themselves in the driving experience.

Designed under a special projects agreement with General Motors between 2010 and 2013, the Supercar System has garnered attention and acclaim. It complies with all 50 state registration requirements in the U.S. and has undergone testing for European standards. The design team, led by Paolo Tiramani, collaborated with key supply partners such as Brembo brakes, OZ racing, Ohlins suspension, and Quaife motorsports.

The Supercar System is not just a product; it's a vision for the future of the automotive industry. By putting design decisions in the hands of customers and promoting sustainability, this revolutionary concept challenges the status quo and paves the way for a more personalized and environmentally conscious approach to car manufacturing.

With its unique features, customizable nature, and commitment to customer satisfaction, the Supercar System is set to redefine the way we think about cars. It represents a shift towards a more inclusive and customer-centric approach, where the boundaries of design and performance are pushed to new heights.

Images: Benjamin Garson, Fateh Merrad, Andrey Chernorot

Awards: Bronze A' Design Award in the Car and Land Based Motor Vehicles Design category in 2014