Event 4: Extra Blog

The original Batmobile. 

I visited the Petersen Automotive Museum for my 4^th event. The first self-propelled vehicle was created in 1769 by Nicholas Cugnot (“Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot”). In a span of 200 years, the automotive industry has seen diverse changes in its mechanical components and its design. As we have discussed in class regarding the lecture of robotics and art, the designs of cars were heavily affected by media and the public’s desire (Vesna). The appearance and functions of cars depended on art. One of my favorite cars on display at the museum, was the Batmobile from the movie, Batman. Unlike ordinary cars, the Batmobile is a sleek black lowrider with wings and curves. This customized vehicle is the iconic symbol of Batman’s car.

Back to the Future car.

Batman movie appeared in 1939. Influenced by the design of Batmobile and other car designs such as the back to the future car, cars changed in appearance from Ford Model T T3 to 1955 Mercury or 1953 Dodge (“Petersen Automotive Museum”). It featured the lowrider, sleek curvy design. Along with the outer appearance changes, the inner dashboard changed with the desires of the public. The large steering wheel, wooden dashboard, and etc. showcase the customization of the cars depending on the owner’s desire. Although engineering allowed the creation of automobiles possible, it is the design and artistic touch on the automobiles that have created a large fan base. It is the customization of the cars that attract the public to love them.

Ford T T3 Car.

1955 Mercury Car.

The interior design of the 1955 Mercury and 1953 Dodge.

Sources:

“Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 15 Aug. 2017, www.britannica.com/biography/Nicolas-Joseph-Cugnot.

“Petersen Automotive Museum | Los Angeles Museum | Petersen.” Petersen Automotive Museum | Los Angeles Museum | Petersen, www.petersen.org/.

Vesna, Victoria. “Robotics pt2.” YouTube, YouTube, 15 Apr. 2012, www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAZ8bo9T_Pk.

Image Sources:

“1921 Ford Model T.” 1886 Benz Motorwagen | Volo Auto Museum, www.volocars.com/auto-sales/vehicles/12942/1921-ford-model-t.