Aquila Racing Cars ApS | Finalist
Automotive design | Aquila Racing Cars ApS | Finalist | January 2014
In January 2014, I participated in a design competition to create a single-seater mini race car for Aquila Racing Cars. Together with Torben Nyegaard Poulsen, we had two weeks to develop a proposal, which was selected as one of the top seven to move forward.
In the next phase, we had eight weeks to refine and enhance our design. Finally, the seven finalist designs were showcased at Aquila’s exhibition stand during a racing car fair in January 2014.
2nd phase, the final design
Aquila Racing Cars Project – Design Optimization
In the next phase of the project, we had more time to refine the design and dive into the details. We thoroughly examined how other race cars are built and worked closely with an engineer to gain insights into aerodynamics. Among other things, we learned that an efficient front intake requires a well-placed exhaust point at the rear.
The deadline for the second submission was January 3, 2014, but as both Torben and I planned to go on holiday starting December 17, we worked intensively to complete the project before then. We managed to finish and submit our design via email on December 17.
About the Design
In this phase, we focused particularly on the fenders, which proved to be one of the most complex parts of the design. Although they appear simple, the challenge lay precisely in their simplicity. The concept was for the fenders, when viewed from above, to resemble two water droplets facing opposite directions.
The biggest challenge was the center cut between the fenders, visible from the side of the car. In both projects, the fenders required significant time to perfect.
The body of the car followed the same general concept as the first design, but with several improvements. We connected the body and wings into a cohesive form, whereas they were previously separate components. The new chassis also made it easier to understand and design air intakes and outlets, resulting in a more integrated design.
Styling the Car
With the basic shape in place, we began styling the car and refining details, such as the windshield. We drew inspiration from Aquila's design language and sought to incorporate some of their signature elements. Torben and I were committed to continually improving the design, which meant frequent adjustments and, in some cases, restarting certain details.
Some elements from the original design were retained, such as the front grille, where we added an extra chrome detail. The only part we reused directly from the previous 3D model was the side mirrors, which were positioned further out due to the changed shape of the fenders.
The width and length of the car remained the same as in the original design.
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Final Design Images
This image showcases the front design of the Aquila race car, where functionality meets aesthetics. Created in Alias StudioTools and rendered in KeyShot with a focus on aerodynamics. Collaborative design with Torben Nyegaard, finalist among top seven designers, showcased at Aquila's exhibition in January 2014.
A close-up of the race car's fender and air intake, highlighting the advanced 3D modeling and precision in design.
This perspective image shows the dynamic front with sharp lines and aerodynamic details, emphasizing the car's form.
The top angle reveals the car’s organic design inspired by water droplets and the seamless integration of body and wings.
The rear end shows an innovative approach to aerodynamics with optimally placed air outlets and a powerful rear spoiler.
The side profile highlights the streamlined shapes, fender details, and striking wheels. An example of Danish transport design.
Here, the car’s rear tail and spoiler are shown, where design and functionality meet for optimal track performance.
Image displays a colorful interpretation of the Aquila race car with an iconic Gulf-inspired color scheme, emphasizing its styling.
A visualization of the race car’s design in a realistic environment, conveying a sense of motion and shape.
This image highlights the distinctive front grille, precise lines, and the integration of functional details like air intakes.
The side profile of the race car design highlights the streamlined lines and precise details ensuring optimal aerodynamics.
This image showcases the race car’s prominent rear spoiler and air outlets in a stylish gold design that enhances airflow.
The gold-and-black race car visualized in an urban setting, where lights and reflections emphasize the car’s details and form.
A realistic visualization of the race car’s design on a mountain road, where form and function meet in a natural setting.
The image highlights the car’s smooth surfaces and aerodynamic shapes from above, an example of advanced 3D modeling.
The rear end of the race car’s design with striking air outlets and a powerful rear spoiler in a realistic road setting.
A stylish version of the Aquila race car in a clean blue-and-white color scheme, emphasizing the car’s form and elegance.
1st phase, a concept
Description of the First Submission
I decided to enter the competition about two weeks before the deadline, as I was curious to see the chassis, but I didn’t have much time. Therefore, I teamed up with Torben Nyegaard Poulsen, who quickly sketched a design. From this sketch, I began building the 3D model.
Meanwhile, Torben added some details to the top view drawings, which I assumed were meant to be serious. This led me to work hard on adjusting the details on the fenders. It turned out that Torben hadn’t given much thought to those specific details, but they ultimately made the fenders look more dynamic and visually appealing.
A few days after submitting the project, I received an email informing me that Aquila had postponed the evaluation of the projects. It took some time before I received confirmation that we had progressed to the next round. In the email, I also received a detailed review from three judges, outlining which aspects of the concept needed improvement. Some of the feedback was written in highly technical English.
At the end of the email, I was asked if I wanted my name mentioned on their Facebook page, which I gladly accepted.
It turned out that there were 27 participants, and seven of us advanced to the finals.
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