Engineers vs Designers: The Realities of Car Manufacturing

Cars are not solely the product of engineers but rather a collaboration between various design and engineering disciplines. This article delves into the roles of engineers and designers in the automotive industry, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of both and the challenges they face.

The Collaborative Process in Car Design

Contrary to popular belief, it is not engineers who solely design cars. The design process involves a myriad of stakeholders, each bringing their expertise to the table. Designers, typically from an industrial design background, often work in close conjunction with engineers, mechanicians, and other specialists to bring a car to life. The end result is a product that meets functional, aesthetic, and technical requirements.

Engineers' Role in Car Design

Engineers play a crucial role in the design of cars, ensuring that they are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and efficient. Their contributions are multifaceted, ranging from aerodynamics to crashworthiness:

Aerodynamics: Engineers design car bodies to minimize drag and maximize fuel efficiency. For instance, the old school front end design of the BMW Z8 was chosen because it offered better aerodynamics compared to more modern designs. Crashworthiness: Engineers ensure that vehicles are safe and meet regulatory standards. The rear slits for the incandescent tail-lights on the BMW Z8 failed US DOT requirements, leading to the use of neon tubes that were both bright and instantly functional. Performance: Engineers are responsible for optimizing performance, whether it is horsepower or top speed. The BMW Z8 featured a 400 hp 32 valve V8 engine to help achieve its 300 kph top-speed target despite aerodynamic challenges.

The Designer's Perspective

Designers, on the other hand, focus on the aesthetic and emotional aspects of the car. They ensure that the vehicle not only meets the functional requirements but also appeals to the target market. However, they must operate within the constraints defined by the engineers:

Simplicity vs Complexity: Designers strive to create sleek, minimalistic designs, while engineers may demand more complex but functional components. The BMW Z8 initially aimed for a hard-top convertible but was forced to revert to a rag-top to accommodate engineering requirements. Regulatory Compliance: Designers must adhere to strict regulatory requirements which can sometimes conflict with design aesthetics. For example, LED tail-lights were not ready for prime-time when the BMW Z8 was designed, leading to the use of neon tubes.

The Impact of Economics on Automotive Design

The financial implications of automotive design and engineering can significantly influence the final product. Accountants and financial analysts often play a critical role in decision-making processes, balancing innovation with cost effectiveness:

Cost Constraints: Engineers are often constrained by cost targets. The BMW Z8 was initially designed to be BMW's halo car, but cost and long-term warranty considerations had to be balanced against style and performance. Tooling Costs: The choice between shared and hard tooling can impact the final design. Soft tooling, for instance, may offer flexibility but comes at a higher cost.

Conclusion

The design and manufacture of cars are complex processes involving a range of professionals, each with their own important contributions. Engineers play a vital role in making cars functional, efficient, and safe, while designers focus on the aesthetic and emotional appeal of the vehicle. Understanding the interplay between these roles is crucial for anyone interested in the automotive industry.