While the vast majority of ideation sketches for concepts or production models are usually kept hidden from the public, sometimes automakers give us an insight into the work that goes on inside their design centers. In that context, Albert Kirzinger, head of design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles recently published a handful of sketches from the development of the Amarok pickup.
The design boss shared the material on his LinkedIn profile gathering plenty of positive feedback from his connections and followers. Kirzinger revealed that these specific drawings were created by VW designer Florian Richter which is a useful piece of information since they came without a signature.
Read: This Official GM Design Sketch Could Make For A GMC EV Pickup
The official illustrations depict a version of the Amarok that is drastically different from the one that made it into production. The model retains the same dual-cab pickup proportions with the typical oversized wheels and exaggerated ground clearance that usually go with sketches. However, it has a more rounded approach in terms of surfacing, without losing its rugged nature.
More specifically, the front end sports more complicated LED headlights merging with an elongated grille that doesn’t extend on the bumper like the X-shaped trim of the second-gen VW Amarok. Instead, there is a single lower bumper intake above an aluminum-style skid plate. Other details include the Amarok lettering on the sculpted bonnet, and the softer lines on the fenders.
The rear of the prototype pickup truck appears to be even more muscular than the production version, featuring curvy and concave surfaces on both the tailgate and rear bumper. Car-like LED taillights and dual exhaust pipes are mounted on a diffuser-style trim piece on the bumper, giving the truck a sportier look. The large-diameter alloy wheels also add to its athletic stance.
Volkswagen is not the only automaker that offers a glimpse into its design process. General Motors has a dedicated Instagram account for sharing development sketches, and other brands often publish detailed design stories during the launch of a new model. What are your thoughts on the proposed style for the VW Amarok, compared to the version that eventually went into production?
