Switching Gears with Alex Crestani
We caught up with our Design Engineer, Alex, while getting some coffee to ask him five questions about his work, and to know him a little better.
Describe your day as a Design Engineer at Charge Cars.
I find it amazing how varying the same role can be between different companies. Here at Charge Cars being a Design Engineer does not just encompass design and development, but an in-depth knowledge of the essential processes that follow each step of the way until the car is completed. I am in charge of all the exterior panels for our Electric Mustang. I oversee our Electric Mustang’s exterior development and manufacturing on a daily basis. This involves transforming a simple surface received from our CAS (Computer Aided Surfacing) department into a fully engineered body panel. This is a simplified overview of the processes that myself and my highly skilled colleagues go through.
Top Tip for someone entering your field of work.
I had an unusual career path. I started off as a mechanic and then progressed to the Design Engineer role mainly due to my maniacal passion for cars and motorcycles. I believe, by being involved hands on in the first stages of my career, has equipped me with a certain knowledge, which has helped me advance in my field of work. My advice is simple, the more you find yourself outside of your own comfort zone, the more you will benefit from the evolution of your own talent. One should absolutely live their life doing something that makes them feel complete and satisfied.
What trend, if any, is shaping your area of work right now?
Sustainability. Complete sustainability and recycling capability in manufacturing composite materials has been a flashing target for many automotive companies. Here at Charge Cars this course is crucial. We regularly collaborate with other innovative external partners who share the same sustainability values, ones that strive to find a perfect balance between performance, whilst not forgetting about the environmental impact.
Working here, what are you most looking forward to?
Seeing our production Electric Mustangs completed and diving into our next vehicle programme.
What book would you recommend?
In this weird time, where none of us can travel freely, I would recommend something that can leave a sensation of travelling and exploring. My personal choices are:
“Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” by Robert Pirsig,
“Going the Wrong Way” by Chris Donaldson
“Lone Rider” by Elspeth Beard.
