Design Evolution
- As you can see in these moving masterpieces, automotive design is, above all else, a fluid process.
The Future Looks Awesome
It won’t be long before artificial intelligence plays a prominent role in the automobile design process. The Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR, inspired by the Avatar films, offers a glimpse at what this might look like: smooth lines, sustainable interiors, an organic battery and animal-like capabilities. The “scales,” for example, are reminiscent of an agile reptile, while its trick axles and wheels allow it to move sideways like a crab. The interior comes to life by placing a hand on the center console as the vehicle recognizes the driver’s heartbeat and breathing. It may only be a concept, but don’t be surprised to see its elements sprinkled into models in the near future. mercedes-benz.com
Blast From the Past
The most radical car designs are typically born and tested on racetracks, as is the case of the new McLaren Senna GTR LM, which pays homage to its predecessors from the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans. The retro-looking vehicles represent forward-thinking automotive design while proudly showing off exotic paints, throwback stickers and loads of carbon fiber—even the wheels are copies of the originals. McLaren customers commissioned the five one-offs seen here, so your chances of owning one are currently as limited as their VINs. mclaren.com
No Time Like the Present
New technologies allow designers to get even more creative with their materials and techniques. Take the new Infiniti QX60 Monograph Concept (essentially a production-ready prototype), for example. The three-row SUV boasts a raised sloping roof, wide wheel arches, high doors and narrow windows that exude exclusivity while keeping things compact for a vehicle of its size. A few years ago, a design this dramatic would have looked cartoonish, but modern methods have rendered this a truly sensual automobile. infinitiusa.com
