Opel Rak-E

As cities become denser and mobility becomes more diverse the conventional car archetype needs to evolve. This Opel concept explored a space between car and motorcycle, a narrow electric vehicle designed around agility, intimacy and the freedom of urban movement. The challenge was to create a compelling two person experience within an exceptionally constrained footprint without compromising safety, comfort or emotional appeal. The result was a radically compact one plus one cabin beneath a full glass canopy with a folding front seat that helped unlock greater flexibility and interior volume. The interior was conceived from inside out using reduction material honesty and structural clarity as design principles rather than limitations.

Working within a 4 person project team at Kiska the vision grew from early research and interior theme Exploration, evolving Opel’s unique design language, through to concept CAD builds, full size proportion model and ultimately the final show car build. The Kiska team lead all design activities, aligning with and challenging Opel’s creative management team, pushing the boundaries beyond the conventional automotive design pipeline. The final concept, ultimately bridging the gap between 2 and 4 wheel worlds was personally signed off by Opel’s Head of Advanced Design, Richard Shaw and GM’s Vice President of Design Mark Adams

Revealed at Frankfurt Motor Show the concept demonstrated how honesty in materials and construction and a lightweight philosophy could play a major role in creating an emotional design language. Its proportions, openness and youthful character heavily influcened Opel’s visual direction as well as production execution. The project received an IF Design Award and remains a highlight in the brand storied history.