Overview

The Mantra is a no-compromise vision of my ideal weekend track weapon—stripped to its core and brutally functional. Inspired by Ash Thorp’s Batmobile, it reimagines the McLaren P1 platform with an obsessive focus on exposing its engineering essence. Every surface serves a purpose, every cut channels airflow, and every component is honed for speed. Ditching the hybrid powertrain in favor of a naturally aspirated V8, the Mantra is not just a design; it’s a declaration—there is no replacement for displacement.

Programs

C4D/Redshift, Houdini FX, Photoshop, Davinci Resolve, Ableton Live

The Ideation

Using a "Brutalist Nagare" design theme I created, the Prototype blends Tesla’s minimalist innovation with sculptural, futuristic elements that push the boundaries of what a performance vehicle can be. The design process began with the challenge of harmonizing seemingly opposing forces—rigid, industrial geometry inspired by the Cybertruck's Brutalism and the flowing, organic forms of Nagare as seen in the second-gen Roadster. This tension became the foundation of the Prototype’s design language, resulting in a vehicle that feels both powerful and alive. I studied the aerodynamic nuances of the F-22 Raptor to understand how form could follow function while still delivering an expressive silhouette. Sketches evolved into 3D models, where I attempted to balance angular surfaces with fluid transitions to create a dynamic yet cohesive profile.

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1:16 Scale Model

Digital Modeling

The Prototype concept integrates key aerodynamic design elements to maximize performance and efficiency, making it as functional as it is striking. At the rear, an active wing dynamically adjusts its position based on speed and driving conditions, optimizing downforce for high-speed stability and cornering precision. At the front, side air curtains channel airflow around the wheels, reducing drag and improving overall aerodynamic efficiency.

A key principle with the Prototype was making an electric car feel aggressive and exhilarating without the presence of a traditional engine. Instead of feeding air to an engine, the large side intakes channel airflow into passive radiators, dissipating heat from the battery system and electric motors. These aerodynamic elements are integrated into the design, reflecting Tesla’s commitment to blending innovation and efficiency with sculptural lines. This meticulous attention to airflow not only enhances the vehicle's road and aerial capabilities but also aligns with the "Brutalist Nagare" ethos, where every curve and edge serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.