Uploaded byJon Albert
Veh des portfolio v3
1. Jon Albert led the design of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon small pickup trucks, which were developed jointly with Isuzu Motors for global markets. Customer research showed a need for various cab and bed configurations. 2. Albert also led the design of the Hummer H3 SUV, which was based on the Colorado/Canyon architecture. Early concepts explored multiple configurations but testing showed customers preferred a conventional SUV layout. 3. Albert headed revisions to the interiors of the Hummer H1 and H2 to improve quality, functionality, and establish a premium brand image through refined materials and details.
Veh des portfolio v3
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- 2. THE‟ PRODUCTS GMT355 COLORADO/ CANYON GMT345 H3 HUMMER INTERIORS H1 H2MCE GM ‘IMPACT’ PROTERRA BUS GM INTERIORS CORVETTE C5 CADILLAC ESCALADE „PLATINUM‟
- 3. CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Isuzu Technical Centre, Fujisawa, Japan
- 4. GM’s global smalltruck program, jointly-developed in collaboration with Isuzu Motors for a worldwide market As Vehicle Chief Designer, I led the design team in creation of the family of small pickup trucks for North American markets. CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON GM‟s first global truck development program (GMT 355), leveraged Isuzu‟s expertise in light truck development, while developing sourced components on a global scale.
- 5. Small Truck segmentVoice of Customer Data identified key buyer priorities Purchase decision: pre-owned full-size vs. new mid-size pickup? Maximum truck/ $ Adaptable for the broad spectrum of North American pickup use, including fleets CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON NA market needs dictated different requirements than those identified by Isuzu for their Asian customers. This required a high degree of collaboration to develop a common small truck architecture to satisfy all markets.
- 6. Small Truck segmentVoice of the Customer data established the design goals 3 cabs: regular +7”/ extended/ crew Articulating extended and crew cab rear seats to accommodate interior cargo Visually convey toughness Suggest a larger perceptual scale than actual dimensions Communicate value, substance and quality CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Basic cab, chassis and interior components were strategized for common use in both Isuzu Asian- market and GM NA- market versions of the truck.
- 7. Architecture strategy thatsatisfies a broad segment range Regular, extended and crew cabs 2 wheelbases/ 2 frame lengths/ 2 cargo box lengths High and low GC options Broad appeal for conventional 2- and 4- wheel drive buyers Niche market versions for both off-roaders and “Street truck” enthusiasts CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Due to the diversity of the NA small truck market, this program embraced a wide range of interchangeable content to allow configuration to any NA buyer‟s needs.
- 8. Theme goals:look tough regardless of ground clearance. Design language fits both GMC AND Chevy. CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Common sheetmetal panels had to convey both Chevrolet Truck durability and GMC precision. Grilles, graphic ID, wheels and interior content were the main differentators between the brands.
- 9. From initialideas to detail execution, the sketches reflected a chiseled design language intended to convey rugged precision. CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Working within GM sheetmetal quality guidelines, we were able to maintain a crisp, angular exterior surface language. Common cab surfaces for each version of the truck were validated with Isuzu in wind tunnel tests in Japan.
- 10. Colorado/ Canyoninstrument panel alternatives- clean, simple details reflect quality construction CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Instrument panel designs anticipated left- and right-hand drive component flexibility to optimize shared content between Isuzu and GM
- 11. Interior shareshigh-investment component sets with Isuzu CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Shared development of common low-visibility components allowed differentiation in more high-visibility, brand- specific content. steering wheel /DSIR column and controls glovebox HVAC head PSIR IP structure knee bolster seat structures door panels
- 12. The Colorado/Canyon extended cab interior CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON
- 13. Extended cabrear seat bases also function as storage compartments CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Pickup truck users place a high priority on usable storage convenience throughout the truck interior. Rear seat cushions fold vertically against cab wall
- 14. Bases alsofold 180 degrees to form a flat rear floor, level with the floor tunnel CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Pickup truck users also value flat, level interior load surfaces and as much flexible load volume as possible. Flat, floor-level rear cargo area
- 15. Crew cabrear seat backs fold flat for cargo CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON This configuration takes advantage of the crew cab‟s more spacious rear dimensions. All three sections fold flat
- 16. Colorado andCanyon design have remained essentially unchanged over their lifecycle CHEVROLET COLORADO GMC CANYON Many vehicle programs of this duration (even the Isuzu equivalent of this truck) undergo a “mid- cycle enhancement”. The Colorado/ Canyon has received only new wheels, interior trim details, fabrics and exterior paint colors.
- 17. HUMMER H3 GMDesign, Warren, Michigan US
- 18. HUMMER capabilityin smaller SUV Express HUMMER brand quality Built from GM Small Truck architecture Volume component of HUMMER strategy HUMMER H3 H3 was originally conceived by GM product planners as an SUV version (GMT 345) of the Chevy Colorado, to be rebadged as a HUMMER. My role as Vehicle Chief Designer was to determine the appropriate architectural ‘reach’ to achieve authentic HUMMER characteristics, basing the design on the Colorado/ Canyon architecture. H1: brand icon H2: high-profit Full Size Truck-based H3: higher volume
- 19. Aimed atpremium-segment SUV owners Full-time 4WD Implied military-spec lineage HUMMER H3 HUMMER positioned itself as a premium SUV brand. Aspirational image intent for this vehicle benchmarked other premium brands (also with military vehicle heritage) Mercedes Benz G Wagen Land Rover Defender
- 20. Small TruckBill of Manufacturing dictated cross-vehicle width based on plant capability HUMMER H3 The original HUMVEE‟s characteristic wide stance came, in part, from wheels that were set out the same width as the body. Because of constraints in assembly line width, the H3‟s body would not be as wide as the wheel track- the challenge was to achieve an authentic HUMMER look with add- on fenders. Wheel face offset required bolt-on fenders HUMVEE front view- wheels flush to body side
- 21. H3 originalconcept alternate Proposed forward-opening side-access doors HUMMER H3 This original concept scale model proposed an open- frame architecture on a shortened Colorado chassis. With removable doors, roof, mid-gate and rear glass, the design concept provided variable configuration to fit a variety of applications. “Slant-back” profile evokes HUMVEE heritage
- 22. Open “slant-back”architecture HUMMER H3 Slanted struts at the rear of the vehicle provided structural rigidity and a format for re- configurability. Removable mid-gate SUT with mini-bed Side-hinged rear swing gate
- 23. Enclosed slant-backarchitecture Open rear cargo zone interior HUMMER H3 Added components create an enclosed rear cargo area. Detachable quarter glass Top-hinged glass hatchback Side-hinged rear swing gate
- 24. Open/ fabrictop SUT w/ open bed Hatchback hinged at rollbar Quarter glass Conventional “square-back” SUV Add-on SUV cap hinged at rollbar Hinged back glass HUMMER H3 The H3 design concept was developed using one of the first reactive- stimuli customer research programs at GM. A variety of body configuration variants were tested and response data evaluated.
- 25. Designers supplieddigital sketches responding immediately on-site to focus group input Reactive-stimuli testing allowed direct qualitative feedback HUMMER H3 . Design clinics were structured to allow designers to modify existing design stimuli on-site in „real time‟, as well as to propose novel designs in direct response to customer feedback. (Holt Ware sketches)
- 26. Appeal ofconventional SUV configuration for most users validated in reactive-stimuli research against all other variants Reactive stimuli were also used to test specific styling thematic alternatives HUMMER H3 Qualitative results were compiled for verification in future clinics, where they could again be modified or confirmed based on customer input.
- 27. This researchapproach was featured in Forbes magazine February 2005. HUMMER H3 H3 reactive-stimuli research validated a simple, well-executed „squareback‟ architecture, as well as justifying larger wheel/ tire sizes, shorter front overhang, and a more vertical windshield, exceptions from the original GMT 345 planning outline.
- 28. Full-size foamsize/ proportion model HUMMER H3 A “vision model” was built to assess these visual cues over a representative architecture.
- 29. Visual cuesconsistent with HUMVEE/ H1 and H2 Vertical windshield in profile cues Cowl air boxes High GC/ minimum front and rear overhangs Exposed functional construction HUMMER H3 Key design enablers were documented, based on research validation, as the design component of requirements for program direction and approval.
- 30. Basic productionelements finalized for theme approval Full size clay development translated basic enablers into production execution HUMMER H3 With vehicle architecture and enablers established, exterior visual cues were refined for a premium visual statement.
- 31. Premium executionintegrated components from the Global small truck program HUMMER H3 Under my guidance, the HUMMER interior studio design team executed components from the Colorado/ Canyon truck program with perceived quality and refinement appropriate for a premium brand. instruments audio HVAC head steering wheel/ column DSIR and PSIR systems light controls drive mode controls shifter
- 32. HUMMER brandinterior direction- ruggedness with luxury HUMMER H3 Luxury car brands were benchmarked for interior traits appropriate for a premium SUV interior. H3 would be the first example of the HUMMER interior design strategy- balance rugged honesty of design with premium execution of fit, finish and materials Interior theme forms were developed with emphasis on straightforward simplicity beautifully-crafted detail. (Paul Kim sketches)
- 33. H3 interiorconfirmation sketch HUMMER H3 . Identified cues established an upscale visual formula for a premium product brightwork details natural finish leathers emphasis on trim construction warm naturals contrasted with blacks/ dark greys (Paul Kim sketch)
- 34. Light trimabove beltline enhances spatial perception, an approach learned from Asian and European competitors in the car market HUMMER H3 This upscale design strategy would provide a consistent visual vocabulary for all HUMMER interiors. The H3 interior was the first HUMMER interior execution using this strategy. Upper trim plastic colors and finishes were closely matched to headliner fabric texture and value
- 35. Refined colorswith contrast emphasis Prioritized attention to component fit/ finish Bright/ honed metal accents HUMMER H3 H3 was awarded Ward's Automotive magazine ‘Best Interior- Trucks’ May 2004 It also received Chicago Athenaeum‟s annual ‘Good Design’ award- (transportation) in June 2004
- 36. HUMMER INTERIORS GMDesign, Warren, Michigan AM General, Livonia, Michigan HUMMER H1 HUMMER H2 MCE
- 37. HUMMER H1 INTERIOR AMGeneral, Livonia, Michigan
- 38. With anarchitecture developed for a military mission, the HUMMER H1 „commercial‟ interior presented opportunities for refinement. HUMMER H1 For the HUMMER H1 interior redesign program, I led the collaboration between the HUMMER brand team, GM Design and AM General to address functional, aesthetic and quality issues with the existing product. claustrophobic packaging material quality fit/ finish visual order perceived quality
- 39. Aggressive 6-monthprogram Design within AM General bill of materials/ bill of process Reorganize components for easier use Optimize off-the-shelf components HUMMER H1 Sketches demonstrate initial concept thinking to map out a more efficient, reorganized interior. concept sketch for rear passengers‟ control panel
- 40. Highly revisedHVAC/ tunnel packaging Component breakups rationalized HUMMER H1 HVAC components were repackaged for more efficient use of available space, enabling a lower center console. combination console lid/ laptop tray
- 41. Concept sketchfor interior applies HUMMER interior visual strategy Optimized space perception within a functionally-confined architecture Simplified fit/ assembly, horizontal emphasis HUMMER H1 Using off-the-shelf components and basic material processes like vacuum-molding and one- shot injection-molding, I conceived a simple, organized interior.
- 42. Simplified controlgroups/ display orientation Silver accents/ chrome details Natural colors contrasted with dark greys HUMMER H1 The interior bill of materials combined components from General Motors, AM General, the commercial truck industry and the aftermarket.
- 43. Seat contoursbased on H3 design Strong horizontal emphasis for perceived increase in cross-vehicle spaciousness Laptop computer tray Rear passenger‟s control panel HUMMER H1 This design execution overcame some architectural challenges unique to a vehicle originally designed for a singular military function.
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- 45. H2 mid-cycleredesign was driven by changing Federal safety requirements. Required engineering changes presented the opportunity for a comprehensive update applying strategic HUMMER interior cues. HUMMER H2 To save cost within the vehicle line, a new, common Full Size Truck electronic architecture was strategized to meet Federal safety compliance, requiring revision to the entire interior. steering wheel/ DSIRinstrument cluster PSIR knee bolster glove box door door trim console seat systems
- 46. Fit/ finish/perceived quality issues HUMMER H2 The original H2 interior did not reflect the strategized HUMMER interior brand language. The safety-mandated engineering changes to the interior presented an opportunity to simplify and upgrade the interior design execution. monochromatic black hard plastic finishes primitive component fits
- 47. „Command‟ driverposition through organized displays and controls Based on common FST component set HUMMER H2 Upgraded Full Size truck electronic architecture allowed more efficient packaging, more precise controls and more informative driver displays.
- 48. Strong cross-vehiclevisual emphasis Grab handle integral to airbag deployment HUMMER H2 Material choices, grains and color usage were executed to the HUMMER interior strategy.
- 49. Revised designreflects a more simple, horizontally-integrated approach. HUMMER H2 Clean forms, with emphasis on rich, contrasted colors, speak in a consistent visual language for HUMMER. Chrome details Soft touch plastics Precise fit/ finish
- 50. Richly-executed trimdetails, tightly-tailored definition Quality stitching/ color-contrasted piping HUMMER H2 Design goal for the seats was crisp definition with superlative comfort. Close collaboration with the integrated supplier ensured exacting trim development with the highest-quality execution.
- 51. GM PRODUCTION INTERIORS GM Design, Warren, Michigan CHEVROLET CORVETTE C5 INTERIOR CADILLAC ESCALADE „PLATINUM‟ EDITION
- 52. Chief ofDesign: Chevrolet Interior Studio CHEVROLET CORVETTE C5 As Corvette Interior Chief Designer, I led the design team through the conception, creation, and production execution of the C5 interior. Created to provide the ultimate driving experience, incorporating contemporary HMI technology while expressing authentic Corvette heritage
- 53. Chief ofDesign: Chevrolet Interior Studio CHEVROLET CORVETTE C5 Developed around a vehicle architecture that delivers better daily driver usability with a higher performance envelope
- 54. 1998 Corvetteconvertible interior CHEVROLET CORVETTE C5 Both coupe and convertible feature a dual-cockpit design evoking Corvette interior heritage in a fresh statement. The arched grab bar on the passenger's side aids in airbag deployment. Body-colored “waterfall” evokes Corvette convertible heritage
- 55. Design Manager:Premium Full Size Truck Interior CADILLAC ESCALADE PLATINUM Under my leadership, the Program Team developed materials and executed the design details for the most luxurious SUV interior in Cadillac history. Premium materials- parquet inlays, aniline- dyed leathers, brushed aluminum appliques
- 56. The superlativestatement of luxury in Cadillac‟s largest vehicle Lavishly detailed with precision fit and extraordinary finish CADILLAC ESCALADE PLATINUM The Platinum interior is executed in Cocoa with Light Linen lower trim TEHAMA aniline full leather seats Leather trimmed and sewn instrument panel and doors Brushed aluminum detail trim Olive ash/ burled walnut inlay appliques 3 LCD screens
- 57. GM IMPACT GMAdvanced Concept Center, California
- 58. Collaborative developmentwith AeroVironment, Simi Valley, California Proof-of-concept for EV-1, GM‟s first production-intent electric car program GM IMPACT While the AeroVironment team oversaw technical development and project management for this program, my role was to lead the team in developing the exterior and interior styling for General Motors Advanced Concept Center , as well as to optimize the design for aerodynamic performance.
- 59. Ideation sketchfor tandem „catamaran‟ Concept reduced frontal area for lower drag GM IMPACT Initial sketching explored a wide range of ideas for vehicle layout, leveraging the package flexibility of an electric drivetrain. Tandem occupants on left Batteries on right
- 60. Ideation sketchfor low 2-seat sport coupe GM IMPACT Optimized packaging for daily use resulted in a small, sporty coupe layout that would be fun to drive and easy to maneuver in urban traffic.
- 61. Form developmentsketches for coupe GM IMPACT . Aerodynamic development alternatives were modeled in clay from simple line sketches like these. Ultimately, this tapering „boat-tail‟ form proved to be the most efficient. Effective airflow separation at the rear of the car dictated this simple „clipped‟ tail treatment
- 62. Team aerodynamicscale development at Cal Tech aero lab, Pasadena Lowest drag coefficient of any passenger car at that time GM IMPACT Aerodynamic characteristics were refined in scale model form, in collaboration with AeroVironment’s engineers to meet aggressive performance goals.
- 63. As design leaderat ACC in California, I oversaw exterior and interior development led the creative team to conceive the final visual design managed the program transition from scale to full-size clay GM IMPACT In addition to guiding the design direction for this program, I also managed the execution details of the finished vehicle interior and exterior. Final styling details were resolved in the full-size clay exterior model.
- 64. Impact fullsize clay model (final review for approval) GM IMPACT Surface forms were translated from the scale aero model to a full-size clay model. Dual intake fans required a pair of ducts below the front bumper, replacing the traditional grille Smoothly-flowing rear surfaces, including skirted rear wheels, were critical in meeting aerodynamic targets. Strong horizontal graphics helped reduce the car‟s mass, especially in side view.
- 65. Impact performancevalidation GM Desert Proving Grounds, Mesa, AZ GM IMPACT Final concept vehicle fabrication and testing took place in the last quarter of 1989.
- 66. Impact press:Hughes Aircraft, Culver City, California, January 1990 GM IMPACT The GM Impact was the first modern production- intent electric vehicle concept by a major US auto manufacturer, approved for development as the EV-1 electric car program in the mid- 1990‟s.
- 67. PROTERRA ELECTRIC BUS Proterra Inc., Greenville, South Carolina
- 68. Proterra‟s system guides thevehicle autonomously to the recharge point and recharges fully in ten minutes. PROTERR A Proterra builds fully-electric transit busses in Greenville, South Carolina
- 69. Customer stylingconsultant PROTERRA (City bus concept illustration from APTA 2013 presentation) As styling consultant, I have generated concepts for vehicles and systems, and have collaborated with Proterra engineers and contractors in upcoming product development.
- 70. Customer stylingconsultant Design/ styling responsibilities have included concept work to support transit vehicle exterior and interior, mockup studies for engineering support, and styling concepts and graphic design for peripheral system components. (City bus concept illustration from APTA 2013 presentation)