This document is a term paper on automobile design submitted to Amity University by Ankit Choudhary. It includes a title page, declaration by the student, certificate by the faculty guide, table of contents, and begins chapters on the introduction to automobile design, design elements, development process, computer aided design, small car designs of the Tata Nano and Honda Brio. The paper explores concepts in automobile design such as curvature of surfaces, packaging, wheels, clay modeling, class A surfaces, and the manufacturing process.

1. 1
TERM PAPER
On
“AUTOMOBILE DESIGN”
Submitted to
AMITY UNIVERSITY
Guided by: Submitted by:
Mr. Sonu Sharma Ankit choudhary
A2346113018
Roll no- 18
AMITY UNIVERSITY UTTAR PRADESH
GAUTAM BUDDHA NAGAR

2. 2
DECLARATION BY STUDENT
I/We, ……………………….., Student(S) Of B.Tech (….) Hereby Declare That The Project
Titled “……………………………………………..” Which Is Submitted By Me/Us To
Department Of ……………………………., Name Of The Institute, Amity University Uttar
Pradesh, Noida, In Partial Fulfillment Of Requirement For The Award Of The Degree Of
Bachelor Of Technology In ….. , Has Not Been Previously Formed The Basis For The Award
Of Any Degree, Diploma Or Other Similar Title Or Recognition. The Author Attests That
Permission Has Been Obtained For The Use Of Any Copy Righted Material Appearing In The
Dissertation / Project Report Other Than Brief Excerpts Requiring Only Proper
Acknowledgement In Scholarly Writing And All Such Use Is Acknowledged.
Noida

3. 3
Certificate By Faculty Guide
This Is To Certify That Mr./Mrs. ………………………… Student Of B.Tech In (Mechanical
And Automation Engineering) Has Carried Out The Work Presented In The Term Paper Entitled
“ Automobile Design” As A Part Of First Year Programme In Bachelor Of Technology In
Mechanical And Automation Engineering From Aset, Amity University Noida , Uttar Pradesh
Under My Provision.
Mr. Sonu Sharma
ASET,AUUP

4. 4
S.no Topic Page no.
1 Abstract 5
2 Introduction to automobile design 6-9
3 Design elements 10-11
4 Development process 12-15
5 Development process(b) 16-19
6 Design of small cars
(a) Tata Nano
20-24
7 (b) Honda Brio 25-28

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ABSTRACT:
The main purpose of this internship project is to learn and study the different aspects of
automobile design. The concept behind the designing is the central idea in this project. To study
the basics of automobile is the main aim to be achieved through this project. Many real
concepts which come to us in day-to-day life regarding automobiles which have been up to the
mark.
With the start of this project I have been through many magazines that has helped me to
understand deeply the concepts behind such an art.
Automobile design have been the most nurturing talent when it comes to design such cars who
have such a great design and the car who win millions of hearts within few days.

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CHAPTER-1
AUTOMOBILE DESIGN
1. INTRODUCTION
“Always focus on the front windshield and not the review mirror.”
― Colin Powell
With the start of this project, Let’s explain a few of the essential “rules” of vehicle design. What
I am talking about here are mainly common aesthetic practices and traditions- which are
complex. These aesthetic tastes vary across national cultures, but as cars are sold globally, and
most certainly designed by globally influenced people, these cultural tastes are often purposely
discarded in the design process.
Though there are complex designs which prevail in the market and more more mind work is
there for the designers.
There are some rules and regulations for creating designs and “shaping the creativity at its
best":-
a) All surfaces should be curved:- The first principal to follow is that of curvature. No
matter how subtle the curve, every single surface on any car is curved.
b) The shoulder:- Using this simple example we can see what is called shoulder of the car,
or otherwise known as catwalk.
Generally almost perfectly horizontal along the length of the car. The best view from which one
can clearly have the view of the shoulder of the car is the front view.

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Fig-1
http://autostyling.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/docimage01.jpg
The yellow line is the basic outline of the cars. The width of the shoulder will vary, but the
principle that the widest part of the car is along the centre, between the wheels, rarely varies.
c) Plan shape:- Nearly all cars have a plan view. Aerodynamics is the maine reason for it.
Fig-2
http://autostyling.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/docimage02.jpg
The main area for curvature is the glasshouse, the top half of the vehicle shape, where the
windows are. The glass on cars is only ever single curvature.

8. 8
d) Wedge:-
Fig-3
http://autostyling.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/docimage03.jpg
The side view shows how the screen has no curvature from top to bottom. Also we can see how
the main shoulder line of the car is horizontal, with a slight angle to the upper part of the
bodywork. This slight angle is known as wedge, and is also a reason for aerodynamics.
e) Packaging:- Probably most of the restrictive aspects of vehicle design is known as
packaging. This is simple the way that a designer must fit all the components that make
up a car, inside specified dimensions. The largest and most important objects to be
packaged are the occupants, and the engine. These two components completely dictate
the overall dimensions and proportions of every car.

9. 9
Fig-4
http://autostyling.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/docimage04.jpg
The diagram shows these solutions, using the basic components of engine, transmission,
cooling radiator (grey) and driver (red).
Most of these examples are 2 seat cars, but it should be clear that the number of seats in a vehicle
will have a major effect on the size and shape.
f) Wheels:- These are the major component to package into a car, as they not only have to
move up and down, the front wheels also turn. All car wheels are roughly the same
overall diameter of no more than 600mm, or 300mm radius.

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CHAPTER-2
2 DESIGN ELEMENTS
When it comes to designing an automobile, The task of the design team is usually split into three
main aspects:
a) exterior design
b) interior design
c) color and trim design
Graphic design is also an aspect of automotive design. Design focuses not only on the isolated
outer shape of automobile parts, but concentrates on the combination of form and function,
starting from the vehicle package.
2.1 Exterior design
The stylist responsible for the design of the exterior of the vehicle develops the proportions,
shape, and surface of the vehicle. Exterior design was first done by a series of digital and manual
drawings.
Fig-5
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/dam/Chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/Home/Chevy%20
Culture/Innovation/Exterior%20Design/01-images/2012-culture-innovation-exteriordesign-mm-1-
1_648x316.jpg

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2.2 Interior design
From many years ,the interior of an automobile has been the most stylish and adoring feature for
the people. The stylist responsible for the design of the vehicle interior develops the proportions,
shape, placement, and surfaces for the instrument panel, seats, door trim panels, headliner, pillar
trims, etc. Here the emphasis is on ergonomics and the comfort of the passengers.
Fig-6
http://www.chevrolet.com/content/chevrolet/northamerica/usa/nscwebsite/en/index/chevy-
performance/2014-corvette-coupe/photos-and-
videos/interior/jcr:content/mm_gal_c2/thumbnailArea/mm_gal_item_c2_0.img_resize.img_stage
._1.jpg
2.3 Color and trim design
The color and trim (or color and materials) designer is responsible for the research, design, and
development of all interior and exterior colors and materials used on a vehicle. These include
paints,plastics,fabrics designs, leather grains carpet ,headliner, wood trim. Color ,contrast and
pattern must be carefully combined to give the vehicle a unique interior environment experience.
Designers work closely with the exterior and interior designers.

12. 12

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CHAPTER-3
DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Development process of an automobile undergoes many steps. This process includes sketching
and after that all the process which is there inside this report.
3.1 Concept sketching:- This concept of sketching includes the basic design and the idea of a
designer which is shown on paper through designs. One such concept I had undergone
through is of Pontiac solstice.
Fig-7
http://media-cache-
ak0.pinimg.com/736x/63/e2/84/63e28459f1d019eb7dc64db2172a1439.jpg
Fig-8

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http://media-cache-
ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d2/24/2d/d2242d0c96dd07a51eb6335b85d36b5a.jpg
3.2 Clay modeling:- Clay modeling for automobile prototypes was first introduced in 1930
by automobile designer Harley earl, head of the general motors styling studio.
Clay which is used for this purpose, is a malleable material that can be easily shaped, thus
enabling designers to create models to visualize a product. Clay modeling was soon
adopted throughout the industry and remains in use today.
Fig-9
http://media-cache-
ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d2/24/2d/d2242d0c96dd07a51eb6335b85d36b5a.jpg
Speaking in the Farmiloe Building, Douglas explains how he uses an armature milled to
50 millimetres lower than the intended finished surface of the clay as a guide.

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Fig-10
He demonstrates how he uses a slick tool to work the clay in different directions to achieve the
perfect shape and thickness.
Fig-11

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Although there is a certain amount of craft and creativity in his role, Douglas says that he is
restricted by "engineering points all around the bonnet and crash points on the bumper," as well
as other control points because "you've got to get an engine in there and you've got to get in and
out".
Fig-12
3.3 Class –A surfaces:- Class A surfaces is a term used in automotive design to describe a
set of freeform surfaces of high efficiency and quality. Class A surfacing is done
using computer-aided industrial design applications. Class A surface modellers are also
called "digital
sculptors" in the industry. Class A surfaces can be defined as any surface, that has styling intent,
that is either seen, touched or both.

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CHAPTER-4
4. DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
4.1 COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN(CAD):-It is the use of computer systems to assist
in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization or a design. CAD software is used to
increase the productivity of the designer, improve the quality of design, improve
communications through documentation, and to create a database for manufacturing. CAD
output is often in the form of electronic files for print, machining, or other manufacturing
operations.
CAD is used in two ways.
a)2-D CAD.
b)3-D CAD.
Fig-13
http://www.geocities.ws/MotorCity/7630/cad.gif

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Fig-14
4.2 Computer modeling:-In this concept, I have introduced the concept of Mercedes benz ,
a new sedan in 2014.it has unleashed all the designing systems of an automobile design.
Computer modelling is becoming an increasingly important part of car design, chopping testing
times down to a fraction of what they were and enabling engineers to innovate and tinker with
greater ease.
Fig-15
http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTA_azwzwjp10w7rvaw7J6me2NGaGPwjjIrY3j1if
WVjzdBP37FsQ

19. 19
4.3 Manufacturing process:- This is the step when the actual process of making an
automobile is designed. The process is huge and finally ends with an automobile.
There are many steps in manufacturing process:-
a)Raw materials:- Although the bulk of an automobile is virgin steel, petroleum-based
products (plastics and vinyls) have come to represent an increasingly large percentage of
automotive components.
b)Design:- Introducing a new model of automobile generally takes three to five years from
inception to assembly. Ideas for new models are developed to respond to unmet pubic needs and
preferences.
For example:- lets study how a BMW is born…
 Engine production:- An engine consists of a multitude of mechanical and electronic
components, but its core comprises the crankcase and the cylinder head.
 Press shop:- The major function of this shop is to give a basic shape to the automobile.
The production of a BMW or MINI automobile begins in the stamping plant, where huge
steel and aluminium strips weighing several tons are cut into blanks.
Fig-16
http://www.bmwgroup.com/bmwgroup_prod/e/0_0_www_bmwgroup_com/produktion/fahrzeug
fertigung/automobilfertigung/_img/presswerk1_540x130.jpg

20. 20
The sheet metal is pressed, perforated and cut using precision tooling made for the specific body
components. BMW employs the world's most innovative machine technology and systems in
the stamping plant. The servo drive in the new crossbar feeder presses ensures a high
output level with very low energy consumption.
 Bodywork:- It takes quite a bit of imagination to imagine a finished automobile when
looking at piles of steel and aluminium sheets in the press shop.
Fig-17
http://www.bmwgroup.com/bmwgroup_prod/e/0_0_www_bmwgroup_com/produktion/fahrzeug
fertigung/automobilfertigung/_img/i_b_Karroseriebau.jpg
 Paintwork:-
Fig-18
http://www.bmwgroup.com/bmwgroup_prod/e/0_0_www_bmwgroup_com/produktion/fahrzeug
fertigung/automobilfertigung/_img/b_Lackiererei.jpg
Five layers – four of which are paint – are applied to the car body during the paint process. First,
however, the body shell is cleaned.

21. 21
CHAPTER-5
5 DESIGNS OF SMALL CARS
The design of small cars has revolutionized the automobile concept. When we talk about the
small cars and their concept, there is only one car that has won the hearts of millions of people.
At the beginning of 2009, Rattan Tata introduced NANO, a small compact design yet a beauty.
In this weekly report, I am going to discuss about the design of TATA NANO.
5.1 TATA NANO:-With a length of just 3.1 meters, width of 1.5 meters and height of 1.6
meters, the Tata Nano has the smallest exterior footprint for a car in India. It offers a
spacious passenger compartment which can seat four adults and offers a high seating
position. Its small size coupled with a turning radius of just 4 meters, makes it extremely
maneuverable.
Fig-19
http://www.autobikeindia.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/tata-nano.jpg

22. 22
Fuel efficiency is 23.6 km/litre – highest for any petrol car in India – certified by the
Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
It has an all sheet-metal body, reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones,
intrusion-resistant doors, besides mandatory seat belts and complies fully with existing Indian
safety standards.
5.1.1 INTERIOR DESIGN
Tata Motors claim that the Nano is 21% roomier than the Maruti 800. Although, that claim is
hard to verify, I am pleasantly surprised at the amount of space that the Nano has to offer.
Fig-20
http://indianautosblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/2012_Tata_Nano-1.jpg

23. 23
Open the door and you find the minimalistic interiors that the 2012 Tata Nano has to offer. Considering I
got a top model, I had a three spoke steering wheel. The lower variants have just a 2 spoke one.
Fig-21 Fig-22
Fig-23
Besides the small steering wheel, you will find the simplest of center consoles, the major
highlight of the interiors. Two adjustable AC vents on the top, three knobs in the middle to
control the AC and a lever to control the airflow and that’s about it!
Fig-24

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Above the center console is one huge speedometer with a green band to help you drive
economically.
Fig-25
Things that I did not like about the interiors:
 The build quality is questionable. After just 700 km, things had started to come off
 There are many rattle noises when driving which will be discussed in details in the
driving report
 The center mounted console is obtrusive when driving
 The fabric stitching is poor
 Quite a bit of glare of the dashboard is evident on the windshield
All that interior concept is finalized and is a unique design. All from dashing dashboard to the
rear wheels, TATA nano has won million hearts in few years.
However, there are a few key advantages that the Nano has in terms of interiors:
 The amount of space in the Nano is much more than the Alto (F8 and K10) and Eon.
 The outer visibility of Nano is much better than some bigger hatchbacks like Beat!

25. 25
 While sitting in the Nano, your knees are always below the waist level which is good for
long journeys. In the Alto, your knees are slightly above the waist which can cause your
knees to ache

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5.2 HONDA BRIO:-
The Brio is the first entry level hatch to be launched in India by Japanese car maker Honda. The
name Brio means is an Italian word that means cheerful and energetic, and that is exactly what
this car is all about.
Fig-26
http://carsizzler.com/model_img/large_img/1368603156honda-brio-india.jpg
The Brio was launched in 2011 and it now comes in petrol as well as diesel variants and is a
good competitor to the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai i10, Ford Figo, Chevrolet Sail and Tata
Indica.
5.2.1 DESIGN AND STYLING:-
The exterior design of the car is very unique. The dimensions are very small but the car still
looks great. It follows a very simple yet futuristic design to hatches that is also very practical.

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Fig-27
http://www.gaadicdn.com/blog_images/Brio_2.jpg
5.2.2 INTERIORS :-
Although the car looks compact, it is very spacious inside and can quite comfortably fit in 5
people. The interior space is really good and what’s even better is the layout. The dashboard
looks superb, better than any other hatch in its segment.
Fig-28
http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ9aAPUUuTCuh0_Q_A0ycAVnii3C4UkSHyM8Q
B0iq95Jtjnqqt43w

28. 28
The ergonomics are spot on and the instrument cluster and steering wheel are placed very well.
Overall the car is very comfortable and appealing on the inside as well.
Fig-29
http://static.zigwheels.com/media/content/2011/Dec/hondabriortreport_5_560x420.jpg
5.2.3 ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION:-
The Brio comes with a 1198cc 4-ylinder petrol engine that has very good power output at 87bhp
and 109Nm of torque. The engine has been engineered almost to perfection and is mated to a 5-
speed manual transmission. There is also the choice of a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Fig-30
http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTKSW_HW0pNCbLuhQJ1UEn-ps-
P__wrH8eWJVGXTWNuxtwERd3D

29. 29
5.2.4 QUALITY AND RELIABILITY:-
The Brio is built very well and has an incredibly well refined engine. The exterior quality and
interior quality of parts and panels is solid, and there is no sign of sloppy finishing touches.
Fig-31
http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRDTAuedlm85ZGunCH42apU1wfFnNQcw2D4uKZn
7cpluKVceMuJIQ
SUMMARY:-
On an average this sedan is an efficient and reliable for a common person in the market.
Moreover Honda assures the guarantee of the level of comfort and accessibility. HONDA BRIO
has installed new heights in the automobile designing. This car has been given a beautiful tagline
“ LOVE HER, SHE WILL LOVE YOU BACK”.

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6 DISCUSSION:-
In the 6 weeks of my internship project ,I studied
a) Rules and regulations for creating design.
b) Design elements
i) Exterior design
ii) Interior design
iii) Colour and trim design
c) Development process
i) Concept sketching
ii) Clay modeling
iii) Class-A surfaces
iv) Manufacturing process
v) Computer modeling
vi) Computer –aided design
d) Designs of small cars
i) TATA NANO
ii) HONDA BRIO
These topics gives a brief explanation of how an automobile is designed. They give a basic idea
of what designs all about. Development process is the main issue which helps an engineer to
design the best of the design.

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REFERENCES:-
Monographs:
Language and the internet.
Edited articles:
Autocar India magazine, super chevy magazine, Automobile magazine, sports
magazine.
Other websites:
http://www.carbodydesign.com/publications/cad-cam-cae/caid-computer-aided-
industrial-design/ , http://www.chevrolet.com/culture/article/exterior-design.html
, www.bmw.com, www.autocarindia.com, www.tatanano.com , www.honda.com