Michal Simko Email & Phone Number

London, Gb

Bicester, England, United Kingdom

I lead the development of the world’s first CO2 Negative Hypercar, from concept to production, working closely with engineers and designers.I push the boundaries of EV design, aiming to revolutionize the automotive industry. We optimize structures and drivetrains, making our vehicles twice as weight-efficient as competitors, using first-principles design. We prioritize efficiency over raw power, emphasizing aerodynamics and ultra-light drivetrains.

Dartford, England, United Kingdom

As Engineering Director at Automotive Idea, I’ve led advancements in electric drives, high-voltage batteries, and vehicle closures. My expertise includes designing mechanisms, hinges, and safety solutions for various vehicles.Achievements:Developed sliding doors, body panels, and battery skateboards.Innovated windshield wiper systems and steering columns.Custom projects: bespoke vehicle battery and electric drive, B-pillar-less rear doors, and SUV sliding doors.Worked on prototypes, electric cars, autonomous PODs, and high-performance concept vehicles.I’m passionate about merging safety, ergonomics, and functionality in automotive engineering.

Banbury, England, United Kingdom

As a Bespoke Mechanisms Development Specialist, I collaborated with Prodrive Advanced Technologies to develop a custom convertible roof top for an automotive client. Due to an NDA, specific project details remain confidential.I contributed to the entire project lifecycle, from initial phases through full development, design, and prototype testing. I engineered and designed a complex assembly of a custom roof mechanism. Most parts were created from scratch and seamlessly integrated within the existing vehicle package. Despite the project's scale, it was successfully delivered within an extremely short timeframe. The prototype was built, tested, and handed over to the client on schedule. The client then refined the concept for production.Additionally, I supported Prodrive’s team with the development of other smaller projects, contributing to their overall success.

As Lead Studio Engineer Consultant, I proudly led the advanced concepts at JLR Creative, laying the foundation for the future of Jaguar Land Rover's electric vehicles. My innovative thinking drove the development of concepts, prototyping, and patenting revolutionary mechanisms for electric vehicles. Constantly seeking new solutions and technologies, I resulted in two patents related to the interior innovations. I also contributed to developing custom interiors for future electric Land Rovers, focusing on optimizing passenger space and designing flexible interiors to accommodate various adventures, creating advanced concepts that blend luxury and functionality. As a Lead Studio Engineer, I provided essential information and guidance to surface modeling and clay development engineers, ensuring they achieved their targets and created beautiful and functional Land Rovers.

As a Concept Development Technical Specialist, I made significant contributions to the development of the hypercar legend Valhalla for our client, AML PT. Working within a small yet dynamic team, I played a pivotal role in several key areas:Design and Optimization: I was responsible for designing and optimizing packaging solutions, as well as developing closures for this exceptional vehicle.Expertise in CBF Composites: My expertise centered around components made from CBF Composites. I worked on critical elements such as the engine cover assembly, engine air intake, cooling systems, and ducting. Additionally, I managed the packaging of the fuel filler and battery charger within the vehicle’s engine bay.Collaboration with AML Design Studio: I actively participated in A-class theme development alongside the AML design studio and engineering teams. Our goal was to ensure that Valhalla met the client’s requirements and adhered to precise vehicle specifications, seamlessly integrating into the overall hypercar design.Working on Valhalla was an incredibly enriching experience, allowing me to advance my engineering skills and contribute to top-tier components for high-performance hypercars.

Woking, England, United Kingdom

In the Advanced Concepts Team, I lead the development of cutting-edge solutions across multiple critical domains. My focus areas included efficient body structures, closures, mechanisms, lightweight materials, and optimizing vehicle packaging. By thinking beyond traditional methodologies and seeking unconventional approaches, I achieved significant advancements in various development areas. Notably, I contributed to the conceptualization of sliding doors, barn doors, hinges, and other essential components for client’s advanced concept vehicle programs

Woking, England, United Kingdom

As a Body & Closures Engineer, I designed and developed high-end closures and mechanisms for R1T and R1S vehicles, utilizing the latest technologies and materials to create innovative solutions that were strong, lightweight, and user-friendly. I designed door and closure systems that functioned well and aesthetically complemented the overall vehicle design. I addressed the technical aspects of closure and door mechanisms to ensure reliable operation, achieving an optimal balance between strength and weight, enhancing durability and vehicle efficiency.

Chertsey, England, United Kingdom

As a Studio Engineering Specialist at Rivian, I played a pivotal role in bringing designers’ visions to life during the development of autonomous vehicle POD prototypes (show cars). My responsibilities included:Designing prototype partsActively participating in the development of sliding doors and other closuresCollaborating closely with the client’s team to understand their visionDeveloping systems and solving technical challengesOverseeing the showcar development processMy passion for innovation and attention to detail contributed to the successful realization of cutting-edge automotive concepts.

Palo Alto, California, United States

As a Lead Engineering Specialist for CBF composite bodies and closures, I had the unique opportunity to contribute to the design and development of ZOOX's autonomous Robotaxi PODs.My focus was on designing and developing the CBF composite body and closures, including an electric Moonroof, sliding doors and Radars/Sensors Carrier Service Bay. I was responsible for solving technical problems and optimizing designs, enabling continuous improvement and innovation.I worked with the client’s team pushing the boundaries of autonomous mobility, contributing to the future of transportation.

Shalford, England, United Kingdom

As a Concept Design Engineer, I contributed to the development of components for GMD prototype vehicles, focusing on lightweight composite body panels, aerodynamic floors, diffusers, and closures. I identified and addressed issues related to the manufacturing and assembly of composite components, providing technical expertise and design changes to ensure smooth production and functionality of prototypes.I closely collaborated with GMD and Yamaha engineering teams, sharing technical knowledge, supporting prototype assembly, and communicating technical project aspects.

Coventry, England, United Kingdom

I specialized in designing and developing bespoke vehicles and systems, particularly in low-volume production concepts and show cars. Most notably I worked on a Ferrari 275GTB developed for George Bamford. I conducted early prototype studies and created virtual models of bespoke vehicles and systems using advanced CAD tools. My work involved developing patented solutions for various clients, designing closures, sliding doors, glazing solutions, and seats, contributing to the development of mechanisms, bodywork, trim, convertible roofs, windshield wiper systems, and steering columns.

Gaydon, England, United Kingdom

As a Design Engineering Consultant, I utilized my engineering skills to design concepts for JLR's X1 and M1 programs, bridging the gap between concept, prototype, and serial production. My role involved designing innovative solutions, creating 3D models, collaborating with teams and suppliers, and finding creative responses to technical challenges. I focused on conceptual engineering, transitioning from prototyping to serial production, CAD design for JLR projects such as Jaguar iPace, communication with CAE teams and suppliers, as well as packaging and designing prototype parts, ensuring seamless information flow between functional groups.

Mclaren Technology Centre, Chertsey Road, Gu21 4Yh

I supported the construction of P13 Sport Series VP prototypes and oversaw future McLaren projects, including a 1:2 scale aerodynamic model, a 1:1 concept, and mule vehicles. I actively participated in testing, analysis, and reporting results to engineering teams. Using my technical knowledge, I assisted design teams in problem-solving and fault rectification.

Mclaren Technology Centre, Chertsey Road, Gu21 4Yh

I worked on the development of the door system for the Sports Series production vehicles. This included ensuring the system's flawless functionality, reliability, and aesthetic appeal by designing hinges, body panels, seals, and surface finishes to meet strict performance and durability requirements.I also contributed to the production of Sport Series XP vehicle prototypes, identifying and resolving design issues with the doors and proposing solutions for seamless serial production.I collaborated with external component suppliers to ensure a smooth development and production process, tackling challenges such as optimizing spatial arrangement, streamlining manufacturing processes, and simplifying assembly procedures.

As a design engineer in experimental manufacturing, I played a key role in the development and implementation of special fixtures for the assembly of prototype diesel pumps, including clamping devices, special jaws, and tool holders. My work involved creating 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings for external manufacturing, directly contributing to the innovation and development of new manufacturing processes.I oversaw extensive engineering projects and manufacturing processes with external suppliers such as Evridge Engineering Co Ltd and Stone Foundries Ltd. I actively developed relationships with suppliers, ensuring the highest quality products at the most competitive prices.Understanding the importance of feedback from operators and machine builders, I diligently developed designs with a focus on the highest quality and cost-effectiveness. My responsibilities also included supporting metrology with controlled temperature and pressure during assembly in a cleanroom according to ISO2 standards.

Master Of Engineering (Meng), Mechanical Engineering With Automotive Design, 1St Class Honours

Certificate In Mathematics & Physics, Mathematics And Physics, Distinctions