KSU GAZAL 1

Styling model GAZAL-1, which debuted at recent Geneva Motor Show is a project of newly established Vehicle Engineering course of King Saud University, the largest historical institution of higher education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranking among the top 300 universities in the world.

 A specific course in vehicle engineering was established in March 2009, dedicated to 55 students. As mentors for the project, K.S.U. commissioned MAGNA STEYR Italy for the engineering and STUDIOTORINO for the design. The brief was to research and create a vehicle with characteristics suitable for the Arabian Gulf region. The project was named GAZAL 1 in reference to the Arabian gazelle. It began in April 2009 and this styling model is the result of the1st phase. Goal of second phase will be a full running prototype later this year.

 Every detail of the study program has been simulated as a real business plan. It considered timing, cost of development, and technical approach in all stages, from a market survey through to the layout of a manufacturing plant, and including styling, engineering design, structural calculations, and homologation. The construction of moulds and tools for the development of a fully functional prototype were made. K.S.U’s young future engineers participating in research and development have access to the most advanced automotive design techniques and technologies available at any primary car company in the world.

 The GAZAL 1  is a SUV that combines a natural ability for extreme off road driving, with comfortable urban and suburban road use. The choice of chassis and mechanics for this educational study project was carefully considered. The choosen platform of Mercedes G Class would give the prototype great inherent structural strength and safety as well as high levels of both on and off road performance and comfort.