Car Design: From the Carriage to Auto-Mobility [Hardcover]

The car is probably one of the most fascinating inventions man has ever produced, and it is constantly being improved. Hans-Ulrich von Mende is equally well-informed on history, design, engineering, product policy and future perspectives on the subject of cars.Containing many marvellous photographs and analytical texts, his book makes exciting reading for all those who love cars.Cars were initially the result of pure craftsmanship, and as passenger cars were based on the concept of the carriage. As manufacturers moved away from metal-panelled wooden frames to an all-steel design, they hesitantly ventured to adopt new forms. Between the two World Wars North America had the worlds largest fleet of cars; this also meant that their design became an increasingly important sales factor. Professsional automobile design was established. Containing many marvellous photographs and analytical texts, this book makes exciting reading for all those who love cars.Architect Hans-Ulrich von Mende has worked with partners in an independent practice since 1990. For 50 years his writings and drawings on automotive design have appeared in books, trade journals (mot, autobild) and the daily press.