Prototyping and technology demonstrators
Delivering functional technology demonstrators to prototype special vehicle builds.
Accelerated product development of technology demonstrators and prototypes
Ricardo provide a vehicle prototyping service which provides functional demonstrators in less time than equivalent mainstream prototyping timescales.
Ricardo offers a unique combination of skills across all aspects of vehicle chassis and propulsion systems and a network of technical partners to meet complex technical specification in short timescales.
Our extensive in-house manufacturing, product development, and validation capability all combine to support our clients’ prototype development programmes.
We create an integrated project team to support customer requirements from concept to delivery and beyond.
Our special vehicle prototyping service is always flexible and tailored to the unique requirements of our customers and their products.
We work with clients from a variety of sectors who require prototyping services for their specialist vehicles. Our wide scope of industry capability means that we are well placed to be able to deliver the most complex prototyping solutions for our customers.

Our approach
Rapid design and manufacture processes
Using our unique capability in prototype build, we create function technology demonstrators in condensed timeframes. This enabled accelerated product development for our clients.
Unrivalled engineering expertise
Tap into Ricardo’s expertise in complete vehicle engineering from powertrain to transmission. Our holistic understanding of the complete vehicle system enables us to deliver optimal functionality and attributes performance to our clients.
Next generation powertrain capability
Our engineers and facilities can deliver and support powertrains of the future. We have capability in hydrogen, electrification and alternative fuels enabling us to support our clients in developing the next generation of clean mobility.
Strict confidentiality
Special vehicle programmes require the strictest levels of confidentiality. Our clients can trust Ricardo to develop their prototypes under the strictest confidentiality
Markets
This service is offered within the following sectors.
Discover our case studies
Ricardo at Professional MotorSport World Expo 2023
Read eventRicardo at MIA CTS23 - Motorsport Engineering & Technology Show
Read eventDefence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023
Read eventPrototyping and technology demonstrators Resources
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