Turning automotive design 'inside–out'

The current procedure for developing a vehicle can be simplistically described as 'outside–in', with the exterior styling being considered first followed by fitting the engineering and people within this volume. The issues associated with this method are discussed. An alternative method to design a new vehicle can be simplistically termed 'inside–out'. This approach promotes a clearer focus on the people issues inside the vehicle. For example, the size, number and age of the future occupants, together with details of their preferred postures, sight lines and reach envelopes, would help define the volume that they will require in the vehicle. The aesthetic of the vehicle can then be developed including the future occupants. This approach reduces the likelihood of conflicts arising between styling, engineering and ergonomics at a later, and more expensive, stage in the vehicle's development. A successful case study of 'inside–out' design is described: the development of a lightweight sports car at Coventry School of Art and Design.