Notice in that article:
Quote:
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The A-BAT's unique aerodynamic exterior was crafted by Calty project chief designer Ian Cartabiano and creative designer Matt Sperling. Leading their design philosophy was the term "vibrant clarity."
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From my understanding of Calty, they design for appearance, not functionality. I am biased toward the functionality side, perhaps because I am an engineering student. Unfortunately, as long as automobile manufacturers are in the business of making money, they will do their best to do turn a profit. As much as I am ready to see more efficient, aerodynamically sound vehicles, I don't think the average American consumer is ready to give up style for substance.
I just competed in a business plan competition at my university, proposing an aftermarket fuel economy parts sales and installation store. Basically, my group's concept was to sell what we (ecomodder.com members) do to our own vehicles. There appears to be a market out there (as Bondo is trying to capture with his AeroLid) for improving the fuel economy of light trucks and SUVs. However, the business experts who judged my competition didn't like the "negative" effect of our mods on the appearance of the vehicles.
My question: Is appearance thus a necessary design criterion for mainstreaming fuel economy mods?