Award-Winning Automobile Design
Top 10 Nationwide | Stellantis Drive for Design Contest
Overview
This project was recognized as a Top 10 national finalist in the Stellantis Drive for Design competition, judged by senior design leaders from Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM. The challenge was to conceptualize a next-generation lifestyle family vehicle, blending emotional design with mechanical innovation to meet the evolving needs of active families.
My submission integrated mechanical adaptability, aerodynamic efficiency, and modular interior architecture, all rooted in practical mechanical engineering principles. The result: a futuristic family adventure vehicle designed to handle everything from urban commuting to off-grid exploration.
Vision
As someone who grew up kayaking, hiking, and biking with my family, I wanted to build a vehicle that could mechanically adapt to changing environments and loads, while prioritizing range, comfort, and long-term durability.
The design aligns with Chrysler’s Dare Forward 2030 vision and embodies mechanical systems that solve real-world problems for modern, active families.
Key Mechanical & Design Innovations
Adaptive Terrain Suspension System
Electromechanical suspension system with real-time active damping and ride height adjustment
Terrain modes include: Urban Comfort, Off-Road Trail, Highway Efficiency, and Camp-Leveling Mode
Enclosed Wheel Architecture
Covered wheels integrated into the chassis geometry to reduce turbulence and improve aerodynamic efficiency
Passive cooling channels route airflow through the enclosure to maintain brake and hub temperatures during rugged use
Modular Cabin System
Lightweight interior framework with movable rails for seats, gear racks, and even a deployable sleeping platform
Energy Efficiency Optimization
Lowered aerodynamic stance at highway speeds reduces frontal drag coefficient
Roof and side cladding prepped for integrated solar panels to assist in powering auxiliary systems and off-grid charging
Front view
Adaptive suspension & blended wheels
Rear view
Adaptable to any terrain
Recognition
Among hundreds of submissions from students nationwide, my concept vehicle was selected as a Top 10 finalist for:
Innovative mechanical systems integrated seamlessly with lifestyle needs
Thoughtful connection between design form and engineering function
Strong alignment with Chrysler’s strategic branding and sustainability goals
The modularity and mechanical adaptability in this design concept can inform future vehicle platforms that serve a wide range of user needs, without compromising performance or sustainability.