2009: Brave + Bold. America’s Next Iconic Vehicle.
Drawings on Display at Michelin Challenge Design™
Biography
Oliver May studied Industrial Design at Bergische Universität, Wuppertal, Germany and Communication Design at the University of Applied Sciences, Duesseldorf, Germany.
He graduated in Industrial Design with an emphasis on transportation design developing a design concept for a high speed catamaran ferry. Beside his college activities, he started working as a freelance designer in a broad field of activity from Industrial-, Exhibition- to 3-D Corporate Design for well known companies like Continental, Siemens VDO and Mannesmann and Associates.
One of his latest and most successful works was the development of the new 3-D Exhibition Design for Siemens VDO in 2007, which will be used as a guideline for the upcoming years.
When there is time outside of being a professional designer, May competes in design competitions to enlarge his pool of innovative studies and bring in new aspects and advanced ideas to his works.
Presently residing at Duesseldorf, Germany, he enjoys working as a freelance design consultant for numerous firms covering a wide spectrum of design concepts.
Description
The “White Vapor” concept is addressed to enthusiasts searching for the extravagant in contemporary and future automotive design.
A puristic sportscar layout, the White Vapor is based on a twin cockpit without rooftop and doors. One can choose between right or left steering wheel positioning depending on specific traffic systems or matter of personal taste and habit.
The overall design shows a unique mix of freeform surfaces and constructive elements to emphasize a strong and powerful, yet dynamic image to the spectator. The slim appearance of the tires is produced due to a shorter sidewall height, a larger wheel diameter and a fine line between the rim and the tire’s carcass. By using contrasts of alternate materials the car’s silhouette breaks up nicely.
The chassis consists of lightweight aluminium and carbon structures to reduce weight and save energy resources.
Regarding safety aspects, the front and back shapes of the car are rounded to prevent pedestrians from injuries. The flanks are equipped with ledges to minimize frontal crash energy and save drivers from side impacts.
The “White Vapor” is suitable to be equipped with “in-wheel drive” for each tire and a hybrid/fuel cell propulsion to guarantee zero emission.