If you are interested in designing cars and would like to dabble in concept design yourself, there are some basic ways to get involved and start experimenting. Remember, any automobile designer is expected to consider the appearance of the car, its functionality, and its ergonomics. In other words, the car has to look good, work, and be comfortable for the people who use it. Designers factor in the exterior and interior of the car (some designers specialize in one or the other), as well as the colour and trim design, and the design of the graphics (badges, decals, and so forth).

The usual process for developing a concept car starts with drawings and sketches, known as ‘Concept Sketching’ or ‘artist’s impressions’. These drawings are the initial ideas of the designer put onto paper. Once this has been done, the designs are translated into a model – usually on a computer through a graphic design or car engineering program, but sometimes directly in clay. Scale models may be developed as well, to play around with various design features, particular on the exterior of the car. Once the company and designers are happy with the scale models, a prototype will be developed (a full-scale design). It is generally this prototype which goes on show at the Motor Shows around the world. These prototypes may be fully or partially functional. If the response to the prototype is positive, the manufacturing company will then decide if it is financially feasible to manufacture the car for general sale.

You can come up with your own concept car models simply by using modelling wax and clay, available from most art stores.