One of the most significant elements that will support the early 60’s, Mid-Century Modern art style of this world are the vehicle designs. The first step was to research the cars and vehicles of the era. I looked for cars from the late 50’s to mid-60’s range of designs. Below is a collection that was the basis of vehicle designs I wanted the concept artists to use to design the cars and other vehicles such as buses, delivery trucks, and police cars.
Pinterest board of early 60’s vehicle designs
Concept artist, Farzad Varahramyan delivered some wonderful designs early in the process. Below is collection of some of my favorites. Some of the early art direction focused on ensuring 60’s vehicle design elements were prominently displayed in the designs which included having chrome trims around the windows and headlights, chrome bumpers and mirrors, and circular headlights. LED headlights, electric ports, and modern paint jobs combined with the 60’s aesthetics completed the unique look.
Concept art by Farzad Varahramyan
The following vehicle designs resonated the most with me and represent a type of vehicle or model the will populate the world of the game and really sell the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. This design was for a common, compact sedan based on a Russian car called the Lada. The boxy chassis and the large round headlights on a large front grille makes it a distinctively utilitarian and practical design.
Concept art by Farzad Varahramyan
This car is an example of mashing a modern car design with retro tail wings.
This vehicle is a minivan in the alternative Mid-Century Modern style.
This bus design takes the classic bus design of the time period with a sleek profile, large electric intake on the side, quad stacked round headlights, and a two tone paint job.
A Sport Utility Vehicle design.