Auto Atomica

The golden age of American automobiles captivated millions with atomic era styling cues, space age materials, and a growing list of luxury options. Dutifully residing in the cavernous glove compartments of these sleek new cars was the operator’s manual. These handbooks were often as design intensive as the cars they were created to support.

After sifting through several manuals at a used bookstore, I was interested in further exploring the colorways and typefaces of the era. I decided to take six of today’s alt-fuel vehicles and reimagine their owner’s manuals for the year 1960. Why 1960? It marked the beginning of a decade that would witness a new refinement in auto design as well as the emergence of smaller, more economical cars. A target year also helped to define project perimeters such as color choice, design elements, and typography.