A concept car is a car that features an unusual design and it usually highlights certain aspects like style or new technology. The purpose of designing concept car is to generate consumer interest before the car is produced. The manufacturer will see what the general public’s opinion is before they decide to mass produce the car. If public shows favorable response, the manufacturer most likely will produce it. Generally, most concept cars are not mass produced since the cost can be very expensive. However, that should not discourage you from designing your own concept cars, especially if you have the talent. When it comes to the design, there is no limit to what you can and cannot do. Don’t think about whether the car will be produced or not. To design your own concept cars, you just have to follow these five easy steps:
1. Decide a concept or theme that you want to highlight. You may want to emphasize on the material, engine type, or the shape. If you work in a group, brainstorming is a good way to gather ideas. Through the discussion, choose the most innovative concept or combine the best two concepts.
2. Sketch the car manually, don’t go to the computer first. You have to make rough sketches of both the interior and exterior. When creating a sketch by hand, don’t expect perfection. Let the ideas flow and show it through the basic drawing.
3. Choose a color scheme that represents the overall theme. At least, you have to choose colors that look attractive. You can change the colors later when you have moved to the next process but it is important to plan the colors first.
4. Now, you can use the computer to refine your design. You can use whatever graphics software you want, but if you expect the best results, you must use the best software. If you want to view the car from different angles, you can use 3D design software. You can also use a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) program to design the engine or other specific parts of the car. At this stage, you also have to think about the details. Make sure that you design details like mirrors, door handles or seat belts well.
5. Last but not least, create a model. Your work will be easier if you use an existing car as the basis of your design. You can use a toy car and modify it with your own design. Thus you should make the computerized 3D design and physical model.