I've read somewhere that automobiles are typically created by the designer first - they draw up the prototype and then maybe make some 3d models of the vehicle.

I've read somewhere that automobiles are typically created by the designer first - they draw up the prototype and then maybe make some 3d models of the vehicle. Then, once it's approved they move the project over to the engineering team and they're tasked with figuring out how to fits all the cars parts inside this new design (shocks, motors, drive terrain, etc.). So for the case of automobiles, the designer is first, engineers second. Obviously the teams will work together to make compromises but it certainly gives merit to the power/value of the designer.