A Career in Car Design: Should You Choose Industrial Design or Transportation Design?

Choosing the right program for a career in car design can be a daunting task, particularly when you compare industrial design with transportation design. Both disciplines are crucial in the automotive industry, and each offers unique advantages. Let's delve into the nuances of each path and explore why industrial design might be a better fit for aspiring car designers.

Industial Design: A Versatile Path to Car Design

Industrial design is a broader field that encompasses a wide range of objects and systems, including vehicles. As a student of industrial design, you can specialize in automotive design while also gaining a diverse skill set applicable to various industries. This versatility can be advantageous as it allows you to adapt to different roles within the automotive sector, from UX design to front-end UI development.

From my experience working at Jaguar Land Rover, where I held various roles such as Senior UX Designer, Senior Media Producer, Visual Team Lead, and Front-end/UI designer, I witnessed firsthand the importance of a broad skill set. The designers who worked on the exterior and interior of the vehicles had a combination of industrial art and engineering backgrounds. This suggests that industrial design can provide the comprehensive skill set necessary for a successful career in car design.

Transportation Design: A Specialized Approach

On the other hand, if you specifically aim to become a car designer, a program focused on transportation design might be more suitable. Transportation design programs are tailored to develop the specific skills required for automotive design, such as CAD, styling, and ergonomics. While these programs are highly specialized, they may not cover as many ancillary skills that industrial design programs offer.

It's important to note that if you choose a transportation design program, you might need to supplement your education with additional courses or gain practical experience in related areas like industrial design or engineering. This could involve learning German if you plan to work in certain international companies, such as HS Pforzheim.

Building a Strong Foundation for Your Career

Regardless of which path you choose, building a strong foundation in car design requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some key steps to consider:

Obtain First-hand Experience: Participate in internships and practical projects to gain real-world experience. This can help you understand the challenges and opportunities in the industry from the ground up. Complete Your Bachelor's Degree: Enroll in a reputable program that offers a comprehensive curriculum, covering both traditional design principles and modern technologies. Consider a Master's Degree: Advancing your education can further refine your skills and enhance your employability in the competitive field of car design. Secure Internships: Internships are invaluable for gaining hands-on experience and establishing professional connections within the industry. Develop Your Portfolio: A well-crafted portfolio is essential for showcasing your abilities and standing out in the job market. Consider including a full-blown car design project to make a compelling case for your skills. Join a Team That Designs Cars: Working on real car design projects can accelerate your learning and provide you with valuable insights. Apply for Employment: Armed with your education, practical experience, and a strong portfolio, you can confidently apply for positions as a car designer.

Major in Vehicle Design for a Comprehensive Approach

While car design is a distinct field, it is often an integral part of vehicle design, which encompasses all aspects of automotive engineering and aesthetics. Focusing on vehicle design can provide a more holistic understanding of the entire automotive ecosystem. You may choose to major in car design within a broader program that covers various facets of vehicle development.

Additionally, consider programs like Art Center and College for Creative Studies in the United States, which offer excellent opportunities to specialize in car design while also providing the practical skills and experience needed to succeed in the industry.

In conclusion, while both industrial design and transportation design offer valuable pathways to a career in car design, industrial design might provide a more versatile and comprehensive skill set. Regardless of your chosen path, making the most of your education, gaining practical experience, and developing a strong portfolio will be key to achieving your goals in the exciting world of car design.