Shell Crystal Car

A clear Nissan 370Z was built with nearly 2000 Perspex components over a 10 week period.

A multitude of model making techniques had to be used  to achieve the variety of shapes and forms needed. All the bodywork was achieved using a vac-forming process, some parts were digitally scanned and machined out of solid perspex, and other parts were moulded and cast in clear resin. All the other components were made by hand.

We had 25 model makers over the ten week period working 60 hours a week to get the car finished in time for the shoot. Over 3 metric tonnes of perspex was required to complete the car, with the chassis being the heaviest single component.

We also built a double scale engine that was driven by an electric motor. This was used to show the route of the oil through the engine. After the shoot the car arrived back at our workshop to have a perspex display case made. The flooring was built as a light box to show the car in all its glory.