Starting
From Scratch
Starting from scratch is not easy. The only
real reason for designing without the rule book is to start a new class
and usually, to gain sanctioning, you need to follow basic rules
(ie. FIA's Formula Libre - Free formula).
When designing without
intrusive rules, one is free to explore cost, performance, and styling.
However, the job is more difficult because of the vast array of available
parts. What defines most cars are the cost, performance and styling
requirements. If for instance, low cost is to be achieved, then all
the parts and labour would have to be relatively low cost and therefore
mass produced -- Hence, you might look at stock auto parts to cut costs.
Every existing class
has something to offer in the way of standards, parameters, etc. learned
over the years. A new or inexperienced designer will pillage, pillage,
pillage from everyone else's best efforts, optimizing his/her car with
the information gained--no harm in that. A good designer will pillage,
then improve, in order to best his/her opponents. And finally, the gurus
of design, will pillage some, study a lot, and experiment with new ideas
to outpace the competition.
When designing without
a great number of rules, still anotate them into a categorized list.
In addition, you should outline aspects of the car that must comply
with your vision/concept. Always refer back to these lists when making
decisions.
Move
on to "Engineering Considerations" >>
