FIAT X1/9 - PROJECT NEW “CORNER” BUMPERS - 2024

 

To design a new bumper for the 1975 Fiat X1/9 that resembles the look of the 1974 model Iaking a strategic approach is needed to blend the aesthetic appeal of the earlier model with any necessary updates for fit, safety, and production feasibility.

 
 

The 1974 Fiat X1/9 has slimmer, more integrated bumpers that match the sporty, lightweight look of the car, while the 1975 model was fitted with larger, protruding bumpers to comply with new U.S. safety regulations.

FIAT X1/9 - TRIUMPH TR6 PROJECT

The Fiat X1/9 and elements of the Triumph TR6 were created in Alias Auto studio. The animation was created in Blender. The purpose of this project is to practice both model building / rendering and animation. The video is the first section of an overall presentation

Building a 3D model of a 1969 Triumph TR6 with the intention of animating color changes for the wheels which was an effective way to demonstrate a visual proof of concept for altering the original steel wheels from silver to powder-coated satin white. This approach provided a clear, realistic view of the final appearance desired. aesthetic.

NOTE: The Blender created video above has this idea prior to executing in the real world.

Fiat X1/9 – Front Bumper Redesign - 2024

 

Current 1975 Fiat X1/9 with OE impact bumpers compared with VRED renderings with bumper corner proposals with integrated 7”round lamps. 7x13 Gold Cromodora CD66 Replica Alloy Wheels were built in Alias as proof on concept with the current OE colors before purchasing.

The goal of this project was to replace the OE “cow catcher” front bumper found on the 1975 Fiat X1/9. Earlier model years featured the intended bumper design, but due to US regulations, subsequent models were unable to retain or retrofit this version.

To explore this, the car was modeled from scratch in Alias AutoStudio, including a version of the bumper with integrated large round driving lamps, evoking the original Rally-era intent. The project served as both a design exercise and software practice, with renders in VRED and preparatory work for a Blender animation, combining technical skill development with heritage-inspired design.

 

FIAT X1/9 - PROJECT NEW “CORNER AND CROSS CAR” BUMPERS - 2024

 

Alias Autostudio utilizing orthographic views to build model.

The Fiat X1/9 was modeled from scratch in Alias AutoStudio, including a proposal for new bumpers with integrated large round driving lamps, paying homage to the car’s Rally-era heritage. The design was rendered in Blender and VRED as a proof of concept, paving the way for a more visually striking version. This project reimagines the model that was never available in the US after 1974, blending historical inspiration with contemporary design execution.

 

VRED - Quick render (Actual vehicle to the left)

FIAT X1/9 - PROJECT NEW “CROSS CAR” BUMPERS - 2024

 

Material for bumpers PETG

 

The aim is to create a design that maintains the sleek, cohesive aesthetic of the 1974 bumper while fitting the mounting points and general structure of the 1975 model. This ensures the redesign respects both the car’s original intended appearance and practical considerations.

The new design will also incorporate 7” round rally lamps in a knod to the Rally cars of the 70’s.

 

Using 3D modeling software like Alias, a model can be created to prototype a bumper that combines the aesthetic of the 1974 model with the mounting points and proportions of the 1975 version.

To achieve the look of the 1974 bumpers, lightweight materials like fiberglass or even reinforced polyurethane can be considered, mimicking the sleek, slim profile while maintaining durability.

The bumper’s finish should match the 1974 style,