A common question we are asked is who designs aftermarket body kits and accessories? The UK’s automotive aftermarket category is thriving with a large number of companies selling products. More often than not they are conversion companies designing the parts inhouse. Some turn to studios like drive who are experienced in designing and engineering aftermarket parts. Unique designs providing tuning houses and independent conversion companies successful product lines. Thus enabling them to become market leaders in the UK’s lucrative aftermarket sector, worth over £21 billion per year.
While there are a lot of people who are happy with their ‘forecourt’ product, many want to enhance or personalise their vehicles beyond the factory options. They are either looking to improve on performance or enhance the styling be that subtle or bold. Whatever the taste of the individual, the demand is for parts designed and made to the highest quality.
At Drive, our track record working with vehicle manufacturers, known as OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and low volume specialists, places us in a unique position to support independent clients wanting to create their own product lines.
Utilising our expertise and knowledge of designing aftermarket accessories, we support projects from concept sketch to final product delivery. We develop creative concepts with design and engineering understanding for manufacture. With industry connections for production, we add measurable value to our clients’ businesses.
Depending on the desired design language and business positioning we create appropriate body kit designs. We can use the same brand language as the OEM and deliver mass produced injection moulded parts. This allows us to replicate the original fixing methods and crucial placement of any sensors. This approach allows our clients the assurance of fit enabling quick turn around.
For the more extreme designs for limited editions or lower production numbers, the more suitable or cost effective route may well be production of composite or carbon fibre parts.
We are confident that drive are the perfect design partner to help create a differentiating product line of aftermarket accessories adding a significant revenue stream to your business. If you are thinking of developing your own range, get in touch and we’ll be happy to discuss your plans.
