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Welcome to designbivouac’s inspiration collection.
Exploring design and innovation.
Over 30 years of collaboration, designbivouac has uncovered lasting insights. Inspirations is a curated collection of inspirational objects and ideas shaping a continuous journey of creative exploration.
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Less is Far More
Tesla is always looking to reduce the complexity of its vehicle design. This Autoline Daily video outlines several ways the company is reducing part count and aiding operators in vehicle assembly.
Tesla is always looking to reduce the complexity of its vehicle design. This Autoline Daily video outlines several ways the company is reducing part count and aiding operators in vehicle assembly.
Note that the large aluminum gigacasting parts in the front and rear of the cars are produced in Austin, Texas. They reduce part count dramatically while providing large access areas for assembly workers. All this effort to make things modular and more manageable for human operators may someday pay off by further automating Tesla’s manufacturing processes with advancements in robotic assembly.
E-Corner by Hyundai
Among the pioneers of this eco-conscious movement is Hyundai, a leading automaker at the forefront of innovation. One of the most revolutionary advancements in electric mobility is Hyundai's eCorner technology.
The automotive industry is shifting towards electric mobility solutions. Among the pioneers of this eco-conscious movement is Hyundai, a leading automaker at the forefront of innovation. Hyundai's eCorner technology has the potential to redefine the future of electric mobility. As more automakers embrace this innovative approach, we can expect a new generation of electric vehicles with unparalleled performance, efficiency, and safety features.
Hyundai’s eCorner technology, also known as the Electric Corner Module, is an ingenious innovation designed to revolutionize the operation of electric vehicles (EVs). In traditional vehicles, the powertrain, including the engine, transmission, and differential, is concentrated in the vehicle's front or rear. However, eCorner technology decentralizes the powertrain, placing an individual electric motor within each wheel of the vehicle. The eCorner technology functions on a concept known as "wheel-hub motors." Each wheel is equipped with an electric motor, enabling independent control and power distribution to all four corners of the vehicle. This advanced approach eliminates the need for a central engine, transmission, or drive shaft, making way for unprecedented freedom in vehicle design.
Benefits of eCorner Technology
Enhanced Handling and Maneuverability: With an electric motor at each wheel, eCorner technology enables precise and independent control of each corner. This results in improved handling, enhanced stability, and a smoother driving experience. The technology can adjust power output to individual wheels, optimizing traction and grip in various driving conditions.
Increased Energy Efficiency: Traditional vehicles often experience energy losses during power transmission from the engine to the wheels. With eCorner technology, these losses are minimized, increasing energy efficiency. As a result, EVs equipped with eCorner technology can enjoy extended driving ranges and reduced energy consumption.
Safety Advancements: Decentralized power distribution enhances the vehicle's safety by reducing the risk of mechanical failures. If there is an issue with one wheel or motor, the remaining wheels can continue functioning, ensuring a safer driving experience for the occupants.
Greater Design Flexibility: Without the constraints of a traditional powertrain, vehicle designers have greater freedom to reimagine the layout and aesthetics of EVs. This opens up new possibilities for creating innovative and futuristic vehicle designs.
Regenerative Braking Efficiency: eCorner technology allows for individual braking control at each wheel. This feature enhances regenerative braking, which recaptures energy during deceleration and returns it to the battery, thereby further extending the driving range of electric vehicles.
The decentralized power distribution and improved handling offered by eCorner technology could make electric vehicles (EVs) more appealing to a broader audience, thereby accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation. Additionally, the increased energy efficiency and extended driving ranges will help alleviate "range anxiety" - a common concern among consumers considering electric vehicles. As the charging infrastructure expands, eCorner-equipped electric vehicles (EVs) could become a practical and viable alternative to traditional combustion engine vehicles, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Hyundai's eCorner technology represents a significant milestone in the development of electric cars. With its potential to transform driving dynamics, improve safety, and increase energy efficiency, this innovative technology has the power to revolutionize the automotive industry. As automakers continue to invest in sustainable mobility solutions, we can look forward to a cleaner, greener, and more exciting future on the roads, thanks partly to advancements like eCorner technology.
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Is VW’s Future in Its Past?
With all the turmoil at Volkswagen, it remains to be seen what path the company will take moving forward. Despite decent vehicle sales against 2022’s headwinds, the company is rumored to be scrapping its current electric vehicle platform for an entirely new architecture. Fundamental leadership changes were recently announced at the CEO and Head of Design levels.
With all the turmoil at Volkswagen, it remains to be seen what path the company will take moving forward. Despite decent vehicle sales against 2022’s headwinds, the company is rumored to be scrapping its current electric vehicle platform for an entirely new architecture. Fundamental leadership changes were recently announced at the CEO and Head of Design levels. Here’s hoping a new electric platform designed from the ground up and a bit of looking at successes from the past can help move the company forward.
Well, here is a suggestion. Take a long, hard look back at more of your heritage vehicles. Why not apply your next-generation electric platform to making new vehicles that resemble desirable models from yesteryear? There is really no need to contemporize with flashy “ID. Buzz” aesthetics and the like. Modernize the one we knew and loved with modern manufacturing techniques and designs that meet today’s safety standards. The company had some success doing this with the VW bug, and it had a good run. Why not start with the new electric platform and relaunch with this…an electric-powered version of a T3 Syncro in a crew-cab Doka Transporter configuration?
Focus on building a line of vehicles closer to what VW was once known for producing: honest, economical, straightforward, accessible cars for the people. Variants of one platform worked in the past. They could again if the design of the new EV platform is done with that in mind. Efficiencies of this approach are working well for Tesla with the Model 3 and Model Y. Need more convincing of the appeal of your heritage vehicles? This artifact from VW’s past recently sold for $51,000 on Bring A Trailer.
And pick up the pace if you can. The competition is moving fast. Modernizing your iconic VW bus from the 1970s took over 20 years of concepting.
2001 Microbus Concept (Arguably the best looking vehicle of all the VW Van Concepts)
2011 Bulli Concept
2016 BUDD-e Concept
2017 I.D. Buzz Concept
2023 I.D. Buzz production model finally becomes available
Flying Through Giga Berlin
Take a dynamic fly-through of Tesla’s Giga Berlin factory. It is remarkable to see all that goes into making some of today’s most advanced vehicles at one of the most impressive factories in the world.
Take a dynamic fly-through of Tesla’s Giga Berlin—a striking showcase of cutting-edge manufacturing in motion. From the moment you enter, you're immersed in a meticulously choreographed ecosystem where robotic arms, automated conveyors, and human technicians work in seamless harmony. It's remarkable to witness the scale, precision, and innovation that power one of the world’s most advanced vehicle production facilities.
Every stage of the process, from gigacasting massive body components to battery pack integration and final assembly, reflects Tesla’s drive toward efficiency, speed, and sustainability. Giga Berlin isn’t just a factory—it’s a glimpse into the future of industrial automation and a testament to what's required to bring today’s most modern electric vehicles to life. Giga Berlin is designed to be an advanced electric vehicle (EV) production hub capable of producing a wide range of Tesla vehicles, including the Model 3, Model Y, and future models.
The factory is expected to incorporate cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and technologies, with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has emphasized that the facility will include many innovations, particularly in battery and powertrain technology. One notable aspect of Giga Berlin is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The facility was designed with a strong emphasis on renewable energy sources, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint significantly. Tesla intends to make the factory a green and environmentally responsible operation, aligning with its broader goal of advancing sustainable transportation.
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Robust Storytelling: Defending a Legacy
Since its inception 70 years ago, the Land Rover Defender has undergone the most extensive redesign. All but the most hard-core traditionalists seem impressed with how designers have balanced the need to bring the marque into the 21st century while maintaining ties to its heritage.
Since its inception 70 years ago, the Land Rover Defender has undergone the most extensive redesign. All but the most hard-core traditionalists seem impressed with how designers have balanced the need to bring the marque into the 21st century while maintaining ties to its heritage. Regardless of how the new design strikes you, one has to recognize how adept Land Rover has become at telling launch and feature stories with clear explanations of the vehicle’s sophisticated design, capabilities, technology, and masterful filming of the Defender going through its paces across a range of unique terrain.
The Defender continues to redefine the boundaries of luxury and off-road capability. Its rugged yet refined design, the Defender effortlessly combines the classic Defender heritage with modern innovations. Its advanced engineering ensures top-tier performance, with powerful engines and sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems. The interior blends opulence and practicality, featuring high-quality materials, state-of-the-art technology, and versatile seating configurations. Whether navigating challenging off-road terrain or cruising through city streets, the 2023 Range Rover Defender exemplifies the epitome of versatility and luxury, making it an ideal choice for adventurers and urbanites.
Pioneering Women In Vehicle Design
Artsy’s “The Pioneering Women Who Designed Car Interiors in the 1950s” article highlights the notable contributions and innovations that a group of women designers at GM were responsible for in the mid-1950s.
Artsy’s “The Pioneering Women Who Designed Car Interiors in the 1950s” article highlights the notable contributions and innovations that a group of women designers at GM were responsible for in the mid-1950s.
More recently, examples such as BMW’s E89 Z4, arguably one of BMW’s best-looking vehicles designed to date, was also designed by women. Juliane Blasi and Nadya Arnaout designed the E89’s exterior and interior design, respectively. Together, they brought far more character and elegance to the series than prior versions. Learn more about their perspectives via the BMW blog interview and in this article in the New York Times. These are just two examples that serve as powerful evidence that the automobile industry only stands to benefit from more diversity. As we move towards the promise of a new Age of Automobility, this increased diversity will be even more essential as an increasing number of perspectives will be needed to address the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The “Damsels of Design” | photo: General Motors
On the Line: Julian Blasi, Exterior Designer for the BMW E89 shapes the outlines of the third generation Z4.
The Z4’s Beauty…Inside and Out: Nadya Arnaout shaped the progressive, yet classic lines and materials of the E89 roadster interior.
Topaz Level 5 Signature Detail
Having had the good fortune to have had several modern vehicles in the bivouac’s collection over the years, one thing is clear. Clear coat technology has undoubtedly improved since its introduction in the 1980s.
Having had the good fortune to have had several modern vehicles in the bivouac’s collection over the years, one thing is clear. Clear coat technology has undoubtedly improved since its introduction in the 1980s. That said, as manufacturers have moved to more water-based paints, orange peeling is still prevalent on even the most premium offerings, as evidenced in this Topaz Maybach detailing video. There’s something to be said for the masters with the patience, technique, and scientific outlook needed to rectify some of the failings of factory paint work. He’s to the details and detailers out there!
Form Follows Function: Camaro LZ-1
The audacity of the Chevy Camaro LZ-1’s design is a strong example of Louis Sullivan’s often-quoted axiom “form follows function.”
The audacity of the Chevy Camaro LZ-1’s design is a strong example of Louis Sullivan’s often-quoted axiom “form follows function.” Its massive and open grill, complete with a hollow Chevy bow tie logo known in this instance as a flow time, is critical in supplying the high-performance 6.2L LT4 Supercharged V-8, VVT with Direct Injection engine with adequate airflow. Overall, it becomes the primary signature element of the car.
Blending this striking visual element with functional performance benefits lends legitimacy to the design. Side sculpting shows that GM still knows how to sculpt surfaces for a dramatic interplay with natural lighting along the shoulder line of a vehicle, which is a type of visual functionality.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the highly controversial front grill of the BMW iX shows no evidence of function and appears entirely ornamental, serving brand purposes alone. Perhaps this lack of a tie to functionality makes this design feature subject to opinions. Both are bold, but the LZ-1 design benefits from being grounded in function, lending credibility to the design.
Functional features support engine cooling and aerodynamic downforce to support track handling on the LZ-1.
Features on the BMW iX are decorative and support the controversial styling of the vehicle rather than providing functionality.
The electrically powered Tesla Model Y requires minimal cooling, evidenced by a closed-form nose, allowing storage in the front trunk or “frunk.”
Future of Automobility at Cooper Hewitt
IDEO’s four-part exploration of “The Future of Automobility” is included within Cooper Hewitt’s “The Road Ahead: Reimagining Mobility” Exhibit.
It is such a pleasure to see work from IDEO’s four-part exploration of “The Future of Automobility” included within Cooper Hewitt’s “The Road Ahead: Reimagining Mobility” Exhibit. On view at the New York’s Cooper Hewitt through March 31st, 2019, the exhibit explores how we might move people, things, spaces, and information in the 21st Century and beyond. Innovative concepts, prototypes, and simulation work exploring how future forms of mobility and new approaches to urban planning might emerge are featured from leading companies working in the mobility domain.
Visitors are prompted to capture their hopes, needs, and desires for future mobility on post-it notes and to place them upon a life-sized sketch of a vehicle designed to support shared mobility. Concepts created for the Future of Automobility series exploring moving people, things, spaces, and together are on view within the exhibit space.
Off The Wall
Whenever I see images of automotive designers thoughtfully shaping vehicle profiles at a 1:1 scale on walls with tape and film and pen and pencil, I get inspired.
I get inspired whenever I see images of automotive designers thoughtfully shaping vehicle profiles at a 1:1 scale on walls with tape, film, and pen and pencil. Regardless of how often these traditional visualization methods are used in this age of virtual reality visualization capability, these images are a powerful reminder of what goes into getting vehicles out into the world. For the rare percentage of them resembling rolling sculptures, it is good to remember all the effort, craft, vision, methods, and attention to detail that makes them a reality.
