Ancient Chinese philosophy inspires Dongfeng’s new electric coupe | Article

Dongfeng has been on a mission to fuse components of Chinese language tradition into its designs, however in contrast to the aggressively-styled Mengshi SUVs proven earlier in September, the model’s new electrical coupe is a smooth, refined and altogether elegant outfit.

Launched underneath the brand new clear vitality model eπ (pronounced e-pie), the 007 was proven in November and is aimed toward “restrained but assured” consumers. Certainly, whereas the Menghsi design language is angular, geometric and in-your-face, the eπ007 goals to attain sophistication by means of simplicity, dialling issues again with clear surfaces, a mature entrance finish and sweeping traces that move from entrance to rear.

Based mostly on such philosophy, the design group drew on the idea of ‘Yuyu’ which centres on the creation of clean house, permitting silence to talk volumes. This mind-set has permeated different areas of design – you might be conversant in the expression “scale back to the utmost” for instance.

It may be seen from preliminary sketches of the eπ prototype, too, and incorporates the concepts of three key philosophies: ‘Easy but Extraordinary’, ‘Human Centric’ and ‘From Origin to Infinite’. This third pillar to the design describes how the 007 was impressed by conventional Chinese language designs whereas additionally “colliding and evolving to create an infinite future.”

With the production-ready 007, the shape is easy and chic, with curves and edges that “coexist with out battle.” As a part of the Human Centric ideology, the design is of course simplistic and goals to replicate a “again to fundamentals” way of living. As well as, the outside is impressed by Chinese language landscapes – and pure crystals particularly, evident within the Prismatic Eye headlights, Rotary Grid Aero wheel hubs, and Skyline-inspired Crystal Grid tail lights.

Conventional storytelling additionally had a component to play. “It revisits the Chinese language allegory of Zhuangzi dreaming of a butterfly,” the group explains, “ingeniously utilizing the butterfly picture and using geometric minimalism to specific the last word great thing about dynamic and static steadiness.” (Editor’s be aware: It’s value studying up on this historical textual content to realize a deeper understanding of how this influenced the design group.)

Though the philosophy behind this story takes some time to digest, the butterfly components are instantly clear – from the scissor doorways which might be impressed by a fluttering butterfly, to the sunshine that initiatives onto the ground beside the door, formed like an unfolding wing.

The outside design is partly aesthetic but in addition useful, with supreme aerodynamics a purpose from the outset. Based mostly on Dongfeng’s testing, the 007 achieves a drag coefficient of simply 0.209, not far off some latest idea vehicles that had been designed as one-off prototypes. A powerful feat for a manufacturing automotive. On the rear, the tail lights wrap across the total rear masks and bleed into the wheel arches – accented properly by the electrically-adjustable spoiler above.

Inside, the inside design follows a core philosophy of Chinese language-style subdued magnificence, leading to a sensible and refined aesthetic that captures the Chinese language spirit of concord. Like the outside, the cabin follows a human-centric design that takes into consideration every part from CMF to HMI – creating a lightweight, comfy and serene atmosphere by means of eco-friendly supplies and impartial colors.

In the meantime, a easy, intuitive consumer interface is offered by means of two screens and buttons solely the place vital. The design group took inspiration from Chinese language poet Li Bai’s verse – “The sunshine boat has crossed the infinite mountains” – with a view to “wishing passengers to embark on their journey, shedding the burdens of city life, and experiencing journey with a lightweight coronary heart.” The HMI design theme is finally described as “easy and zero-burden” and makes use of simplified shapes and light-weight colors to create a relaxing, easy-to-use system.

There are three out there inside themes, every of which displays a special Chinese language panorama. Underpinning all of those trim ranges are a number of key pillars: Visible, Auditory, Tactile and Olfactory. From an auditory perspective, the inside makes use of a WANOS panoramic audio system, with hidden audio system throughout the driver’s headrest.

In terms of tactility, the inside follows the notion of “mild safety” and – in a nod to the younger, aspirational households which might be being focused – the supplies are eco- and baby-friendly. As for olfactory and the sense of odor, a variety of Chinese language incense fragrances can be found. “Chinese language tradition excels in creating ambiance by means of the senses,” the design group observes.

At a time the place EV design has been accused of being more and more homogenous, it’s refreshing to see a model dig deep into its tradition for brand spanking new inspiration that has been as but untapped.