Geely presented an assortment of 11 concept cars at Auto China in Beijing this year - from a small electric car to a limousine and including sports cars, off-road jeeps, pickups and SUVs. It was an elaborate effort to test customer perception to Chinese automaker's various proposals as the company searches for a consistent design direction for its Englon, Gleagle and Emgrand sub-brands. On the showstand, most of the local media's attention was on the Gleagle GS - an entry-level 2+2-seater fitting into the ‘Global Eagle' range. Geely claims the GS was created to appeal to Chinese youth, but it is evident that the designers were equally naïve in the creation of the design: there are some basic proportion mistakes, such as the front fender reaching its highest point before the center of the front wheel; the shoulder line creates a busy hollow double curvature along the body side; and the front and rear fender lips accentuate the heaviness of the car's body side. The fact that the roof/pillar curvature - made on a single constant section and in a continuous radius - lacks tension, that the DLO and beltline have minimal plan shape and the virtual lack of any tumblehome further detracts from the exterior design.
Unlike the exterior, surprisingly significant care was given to the interior surface and feature details. The IP is well-proportioned, the center console fits a multi-function screen, and the dash has a fine sporty flow through the door panels. Even the color choice is in tune with the concept: a subtle red that gives it a sense of occasion. The only elements that let down the interior are the grain and emboss chosen in leather and plastic, otherwise it is comparable to that of any established manufacturer.
Though Geely has made substantial strides in both material and quality perception, the design of the Gleagle GS was an opportunity missed. The car's lack of attention to detail and overall failure to adhere to typical design rules regarding proportions and details unfortunately let down what could have easily been an interesting new entry-level small coupe design from the Chinese automaker.
Unlike the exterior, surprisingly significant care was given to the interior surface and feature details. The IP is well-proportioned, the center console fits a multi-function screen, and the dash has a fine sporty flow through the door panels. Even the color choice is in tune with the concept: a subtle red that gives it a sense of occasion. The only elements that let down the interior are the grain and emboss chosen in leather and plastic, otherwise it is comparable to that of any established manufacturer.
Though Geely has made substantial strides in both material and quality perception, the design of the Gleagle GS was an opportunity missed. The car's lack of attention to detail and overall failure to adhere to typical design rules regarding proportions and details unfortunately let down what could have easily been an interesting new entry-level small coupe design from the Chinese automaker.
No comments:
Post a Comment