Episode 2
The clay model

Car designers use highly advanced tools such as photorealistic 3D models and digital renderings. But ironically, they also rely on a material that’s been in use for almost 30,000 years: clay.

Using a clay scale model may seem outdated, but it allows several possibilities that modern software can’t offer. For one, the clay’s pliable nature makes it easy to mould, add, or take away material and quickly change a car’s design. Secondly, it improves collaboration as multiple people can see the entire vehicle from various angles simultaneously. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, it forces designers to see the big picture; focusing too tightly on small details is common when using digital methods.