What Keeps Concept Cars From Hitting the Market?
Photo: Chevrolet
If an auto show does not showcase wildly inventive, out-of-this-world-looking concept cars, can it really be called an auto show? Technically, yes, but it won’t be as incredible, or memorable. Even if concept cars are a little a bit weird, they’re usually creative. They push the envelope on what automakers and engineers can create using bold designs and non-traditional materials. While these headline-grabbing vehicles may not make it to market, they serve a real purpose.
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“Concept cars can be used to test the feasibility of new technologies. They provide a useful gauge of public interest in new automotive features,” according to How Stuff Works writer Christopher Lampton. “And they allow automotive designers free reign to explore out-of-the-box ideas that could either revolutionize the automobile industry or disappear into the dustbin of automotive history.”
There are several reasons why, despite all the purposes they serve, concept cars don’t make it to the production line or dealership lot near you.
Not ready
Auto shows provide a lot of smoke and mirrors and concept cars can take advantage of creative staging. According to Lampton, a concept car that’s captivating an audience isn’t complete, drivable, or even full size. Do you ever wonder why you cannot get close to a concept car at an auto show? In the event that a concept car has to move, Lampton says a borrowed drivetrain may supply the power.
Not meant to be
Concept cars, from their inception, are never meant to be produced.
“They aren’t intended to become production vehicles. A concept car is exactly what the name implies: a car designed to demonstrate a concept,” Lampton reports.
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Although you won’t be able to drive off into the sunset in the latest concept car, you’ll see what’s possible and be reminded that creativity and ingenuity are limitless.
DeAnn Owens is a Dayton transplant by way of the Windy City, yet considers herself to be a California girl at heart even though she’s only visited there once. To get through the dreaded allergy season unique to the Miami Valley, she reads, writes, complains about the weather, and enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, and their newest addition, a Boston terrier puppy that is now in charge of all their lives. In the future, she hopes to write a novel and travel through time. See more articles by DeAnn.