What is that you say – the Mazda concept pictured above kind of reminds you of a Tesla? Well, that may partially hold true for the front-end aesthetics, but the rest of the body has nice edgy shape to it that manages to neatly hide the fact that it’s a practical hatchback with seating for 6 or rather, 3+3.

The name of the study is Mazda Deep Orange. It was built by engineering students at the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR), and designed by student Frederick Naaman at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, with Mazda overseeing the project.

The chassis of the car without the body panels was originally unveiled during the 2012 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. For its motivation, the concept utilizes a hybrid powertrain comprising an unspecified petrol engine driving the front wheels and an electric motor for the rear wheels, with the system being able to automatically switch between front-, rear- and all-wheel drive.

Some other highlights include the unique a load-bearing structure that is based on an innovative sheet-folding technology patented by Industrial Origami and the aforementioned 3+3 seat layout.

Derek Jenkins, design director for Mazda North American Operations, commented: “These students have provided fresh and inventive ideas from sketch pad to sheet metal, and the final product truly speaks to that open dialogue and collaboration between the Art Center College of Design and Clemson University.”

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