From the official Press Release:

The finished HHR Panel by Jim McCammon

The creative alliance between Chevrolet and Detroit's College for Creative Studies gave CCS students real-life experience in the competitive world of design and consulting, and provided Chevrolet with a glimpse of what vehicles and brands stir young adults’ souls.

Seven CCS juniors researched target demographics and created exclusive designs and integrated marketing plans, aimed at 18- 25-year-olds, for Chevrolet's new HHR Panel.

The HHR Panel features windowless side panels and rear cargo doors in place of conventional rear doors, creating a continuous canvas.

The seven CCS students and their designs

An executive team lead by GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz chose the winning concept, “Skull from Hell,” developed by Jim McCammon of Livonia, which was brought to life on the HHR Panel.

McCammon’s artistry will be on display at the New York Auto Show (6-15 April 2007).

“This project with CCS is a unique opportunity for Chevrolet to promote the HHR Panel to a specific audience while allowing students’ creativity to shine on the vehicles’ blank canvas,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.

“It’s a great way to demonstrate how to make the HHR Panel a perfect fit for its audience, whether it’s a large company, small business or an individual who just wants to be expressive.

Jim McCammon and his "Flaming Skull from Hell" winning design

"I think enthusiasts will be inspired by the student designs and we’ll see more customizing like this on the road.”

“We are thrilled that students in our Integrated Marketing class have been asked to take on this exciting real-world project.

Mark Zapico, chair of Advertising Design at CCS, said "It provides a perfect example of how the Chevrolet brand experience extends beyond traditional media.”

“The commitment by Chevrolet and the time they have given to enriching the education of these students has been unbelievable.”

HHR Panel production began this month. It will be offered in LS and LT trims, with 2.2L and 2.4L engines.

See the video presentation:

Chevy HHR Panel design competition - the video

A video presentation of the project by GM and Detroit's CCS (College for Creative Studies) for the design of graphic concepts for the new Chevrolet HHR Panel.

Published on 4 April 2007 | Page views: 875

(Source: GM)