Automotive design is a unique and rapidly evolving engineering field, becoming increasingly important and relevant. It is a multi-disciplinary field that requires understanding the vehicle’s mechanical systems, ergonomics, aesthetics, and environmental impact. Automotive design courses are available worldwide at colleges, universities, and private institutions.
Automotive design courses are typically divided into two categories: theoretical and practical. Academic courses provide students with an in-depth understanding of vehicle design principles, including the history and evolution of automotive design, the design process, materials, and manufacturing. Practical courses allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in hands-on exercises, such as building scale models or creating digital simulations.
The following are some of the most common types of automotive design courses available:
Interior Design: Interior design courses focus on the design of the interior of a vehicle, including its ergonomics, materials, and styling. Students learn about the aesthetic principles of design and the functional aspects of interior features. They also gain knowledge of interior materials, colors, and textures and learn how to create an interior that is both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable for the driver and passengers.
Exterior Design: Exterior design courses focus on the design of the exterior of a vehicle, including its styling, aerodynamics, and overall appearance. Students learn about the principles of automotive styling, such as using lines, curves, and shapes. They also gain knowledge of exterior materials and colors and how to create a vehicle that is aesthetically pleasing and aerodynamically efficient.
Performance Design: Performance design courses focus on the design of a vehicle’s performance capabilities, such as its acceleration, top speed, and handling characteristics. Students learn about the principles of powertrain design, including engine, transmission, and suspension design. They also learn about the principles of aerodynamics and how to create a powerful and efficient vehicle.
Advanced Design: Advanced automotive design courses focus on the design of advanced features, such as active safety systems, autonomous driving, and advanced infotainment systems. Students learn about the principles of dynamic safety systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, as well as the principles of autonomous driving and advanced infotainment systems.
Industrial Design: Industrial design courses focus on the design of a vehicle’s manufacturing process, including its materials and components. Students learn about industrial design principles and how to create an efficient and cost-effective manufacturing process. They also gain knowledge of the different materials used in the manufacturing process, such as steel, aluminum, and composites, and learn how to create a vehicle that is both cost-effective and efficient.
In addition to the courses mentioned above, specialty courses are available that focus on specific aspects of automotive design, such as design for electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and connected vehicles. Specialty courses give students an in-depth understanding of the design principles and technologies associated with these vehicles.
Automotive design courses offer students the opportunity to learn about the principles of design, materials, and manufacturing, as well as the technology and trends associated with the automotive industry. With the right combination of theoretical and practical courses, students can gain the skills and experience necessary to become successful automotive designers.
