Looks at the creative process behind the design of more than thirty contemporary automobiles.

This comprehensive new edition of How to Design Cars Like a Pro provides an in-depth look at modern automotive design. Interviews with leading automobile designers from Ford, BMW, GM Jaguar, Nissan and others, analyses of past and present trends, studies of individual models and concepts, and much more combine to reveal the fascinating mix of art and science that goes into creating automobiles. This book is a must-have for professional designers, as well as for automotive enthusiasts.

Showing where car designers look for inspiration when envisioning cars of the future, and how they respond to the demands of the market, this title dissects the process of designing these imaginary flights of fancy from idea to realization.

Dialogue between one of the world's most experienced racing car designers and a technical author-graduate engineer on the theory and technique of racing car design and development. Contents include: The anatomy of a racing car designer; biography of Len Terry; description of nearly 30 Terry designs from clubman's sports car to Indianapolis winner; a blank sheet of paper; handling characteristics; the theoretical aspects; oversteer and understeer; practical implications; structural considerations; space-frames and monocoques; the cockpit area; the structural engine; progress and legislation; suspension; changing needs and layouts; the torsion bar; self-levelling systems; anti-dive and anti-squat; progressive-rate springing; stiffness/weight ratio; brakes, wheels and tires; influence of smaller wheels; twin-disc brake systems; attention to details; low-profile tire phenomena; aerodynamics; wings and things; intake ram effect; ground effect vehicles; the cooling system; radiator location; cooling the oil; safety and comfort; primary and secondary safety; driver comfort; materials; components-ball joints, batteries, brakes, clutches, dampers, drive-shafts, electrics, flexible bearings, flexible fuel cells, gearshift linkages, instruments, non-return valves, non-spill fuel fillers, oil and fuel pipes, Perspex mouldings, radiators, springs and steering gear; design versus development; the competition-nine other racing car designers discussed; future developments.

See what really goes into every aspect of car design.

'Cosmic Motors' shows the design process of unique futuristic vehicles, from the first initial sketches to the stunningly detailed 3-D models and final photorealistic full spread renderings. Spaceships, pods, racing cars, giant trains, warships and balloons are shown from concept to completion.