Age of Combustion: Notes on Automobile Design

The automobile is the ultimate analogue machine and mankind's most ingenious, seductive, and damaging invention. This book reproduces 60 of Stephen Bayley's popular monthly columns for Octane, the outstanding classic car magazine, providing insight into car culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2021
Publisher: Circa Press

The automobile stands as the epitome of an analogue machine, representing the pinnacle of human ingenuity, allure, and harm. For well over a century, cars have served as the focal points of our perceptions of style, prestige, and desire. In terms of design, the era of combustion has been as diverse and captivating as the Baroque architectural style, while also enjoying widespread popularity. However, this era is now drawing to a close, as the internal-combustion engine is being supplanted by the battery, transforming cars into wheeled computers powered by artificial intelligence rather than oil. Accompanied by a comprehensive introduction, this book presents a collection of 60 of Stephen Bayley's renowned monthly columns, originally published in Octane, the esteemed classic car magazine. For over a decade, Bayley has been a consistent and insightful commentator on car culture, drawing upon privileged access to industry insiders. Through his writings, readers have gained a deep understanding of the automotive world, exploring its historical significance, technological advancements, and cultural impact. Whether discussing the evolution of car design, the influence of automotive legends, or the nuances of car culture, Bayley's columns have consistently provided valuable insights and perspectives. This book serves as a testament to his expertise and dedication to the world of classic cars, offering a captivating glimpse into the past, present, and future of this remarkable industry.

Weight: 672g
Dimension: 167 x 218 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911422136