BOWLER RAPTOR CONCEPT

The  BOWLER Raptor – the work of Ryan David Skelley, a 2009 graduate of Coventry University’s Automotive Design course – is an extreme concept car with aspirations for breaking new records.

The Raptor is inspired by the Dakar and Baja rallies and the vehicles which compete in these races. Whilst keeping elements of traditional 4x4s, the design also incorporates modern-day technology and eco-conscious materials to create a truly exceptional off-road buggy. The vehicle features an all electric drivetrain, unique exposed chassis and minimal bodywork to propel itself to speeds of up to 130mph and a race distance of 190 miles.

The vehicles angular bodywork takes inspiration from both modern architecture and superbikes, resulting in both a unique vehicle aesthetic as well as a highly functional body panel system. The body panels are all held onto the vehicle with hex-head bolts, all independent of each other and can be replaced quickly when damaged. The vehicles alloys were designed to be in sync with the bodyworks aesthetic, whereas the tires were designed to create a contrast, using a combination of both dune buggy paddle tires and digital technology as inspiration. The vehicle contains many unique features, such as the exposed carbon fibre chassis designed to bring the occupants closer to the action and heighten the sense of speed, whilst providing ample safety. A lack of A-pillars and a cantilever roof provide an unrivalled view from the driver's seat, giving a near panoramic view of the landscape.

The electric drivetrain is powered by Lithium-Titanate batteries, rechargeable through a standard wall socket or a dedicated high powered outlet. The batteries can also be quickly and easily replaced using the Raptor's unique "hot-swap" battery system. The "Hot Swap" battery system is based on the Better Place battery technology. The vehicle's battery consists of two EnerDel Lithium-Titanate packs in tandem, a total of 52kW, paired with a next generation Siemens electric motor and single speed transaxle. The iPhone in the dash provides the vehicle with a constant internet connection as well as acting as a secondary screen. This allows the occupants to receive real-time course and weather updates, race statistics, GPS data.