Automotive Design Student looks at the future of handmade cars

Is there a place for handcrafted cars in the future? This is the question that one Automotive Design student has posed as part of his final year project.

Chris Shaw, 23, from Chesterfield, developed the idea for his Degree Show project when considering how handmade cars may fit into the environmentally conscious world of tomorrow.

His vehicle takes a fresh approach on the Grand Tourer theme, a high-performance luxury automobile designed for long-distance driving. This new design is more sustainable and greener than its present day relatives, while still providing an enjoyable driving experience. The car also has some unique features such as a body crafted from recycled aircraft aluminium.

Chris wanted to explore how people could form a greater bond with their car if they have a better understanding of the unique nature of how it has been built - encouraging the owner to keep the vehicle for a lifetime, maybe even passing it down.

Chris said:

“I wanted to look at how an emotional bond between the user and the vehicle could be forged through a better understanding of contemporary expertise and craft to promote sustainability. My aim was to create a vehicle for life that can be loved by its owner, as well as being both environmentally friendly and having the versatility of limited off-road capability.”

Chris was lucky enough to work in the Aston Martin design studio during 2011 – an experience he found invaluable given his desire to work in the design industry.

This project also links in with the University’s Grand Challenge Initiative in Low Carbon Vehicles – one of six key global themes that have been identified as areas where Coventry University’s expertise and applied research capabilities can have a significant impact.

The Coventry University Industrial Design Degree Show will be held in the Maurice Foss Building on Cox Street, Coventry city centre.  Entry is free and will be open to public from 2nd -10th June 2012.