Concept to creation: Next-gen electric vehicles
A collaboration across SCAD's Atlanta and Savannah locations has culminated in two innovative concepts for electric vehicles that bring the joy back to driving and resonate with Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences. Students in the SCAD School of Animation and Motion, School of Building Arts, School of Design, and the SCAD De Sole School of Business Innovation worked alongside accomplished faculty, alumni mentors, and industry professionals to drive these unique designs forward.
2
cars
7
majors
1
year
Project approach
The SCAD industrial design program creates hands-on learning experiences unlike any other university, and the creation of these electric vehicles is a shining testament to its ingenuity. The project offered an unparalleled opportunity for students to experience the full ideation, development, and production process — and enhance their résumés with their contributions to the build of a fully functional electric car. The emphasis SCAD places on application over theory, and on experience beyond the screen, is distinct. Our students lead from the driver’s seat, learning to focus on the details and decisions behind the final product, preparing them for successful careers with instant impact.
Project lead
Owen Foster, associate chair of design, SCAD Atlanta
Rafael Corazza Ronchetti, industrial design professor
Student disciplines
Industrial design
Interior design
Fibers
Motion media design
Graphic design
"Over the years, SCAD has developed several concepts and prototypes of vehicles and boats, but what made this year different is that we really wanted to create something for the next generation. In researching that idea, we found that Gen Z and Gen Alpha don’t view cars that same way that others have in the past. They are specifically looking for something that will help amplify their own unique journey through life and not just a means of transportation."
Owen Foster | Associate chair, design
"This project has been an incredible opportunity for our students to create something that has real meaning and could have a pivotal impact on the car industry. Throughout this process, we have been able to create a real working environment, which included students from outside the industrial design program as well. We wanted to make sure we brought together a well-rounded group of expertise just like in any company, and we had students from interior design, fibers, motion media design, graphic design, and advertising all bring their incredible talents to the table."
Rafael Corazza Ronchetti | Industrial design professor
Project outcome
Throughout this process, students took on the role of professional designers and were empowered to assume leadership positions within the project, overseeing the manufacturing, design, fabrication, and interior design of each car. This engagement allowed them to take ownership of each step of the build and grow from their experiences.
The versatile industrial design industry offers endless opportunities for students to follow their passions, whatever they may be. SCAD graduates have gone on to create unforgettable products and experiences at some of the world’s foremost companies, from Corvette builds at General Motors to private aircrafts and beyond.
"It's amazing to see the physical manifestation of all our hard work over the past year. Looking at the car, I can remember us poring over every detail. It's a good feeling to see that dedication represented in something so emotional and visceral as an automobile."
Jeremy Takyi | M.F.A., industrial design, 2024Design with the end user in mind. Explore the School of Design at SCAD.
SCAD design students directly influence the aesthetic language, performance, sustainability, and financial value of products and experiences. They master the process of identifying design insights, engage in scenario planning, and create viable solutions that become tangible parts of a system, service, or brand.