The Fourth D is a B2B design studio founded by Ángel Guerra, an automotive digital designer, specializing in real-time visualization and high-performance vehicle design. By working directly with clients worldwide, the studio eliminates intermediaries to achieve faster processes, clear communication, and full commitment to every design project.
The Fourth D combines the full capabilities of a design studio into a single point of contact. From 2D sketching to A‑class 3D modeling, visualization, VR, engineering, ergonomics, homologation, and aero performance, the studio delivers flexibility, shorter timelines, and reduced costs. With over 15 years of experience, Ángel has delivered design services across the globe, collaborating with brands such as SEAT, Citroën, Mercedes‑Benz, Porsche, and BMW. He played a key role at Rimac Automobili during the development of the Rimac Nevera, and has designed the GP1 Hypercar for Garagisti & Co.
The goal with the GP1 was to create a modern car inspired by the past, one with a clear, instantly iconic design. The car channels the spirit of analogue supercars from the 1980s and 1990s, referencing icons like the McLaren F1, Lamborghini Countach, and Porsche Carrera GT. In contrast to today’s oversized proportions and poorly integrated performance elements, the GP1 restores balance and a strong connection between human and machine.
How does KeyShot benefit your workflow during a design process?
Utilizing KeyShot as a real-time rendering tool enables faster decision-making, immediate visual validation and more confident design outcomes. It’s a core component to what I call hyperflow, making it possible to go from concept to client-ready presentation in just 7 weeks. KeyShot bridges the gap between concept and production.
The render of a design becomes a diagnostic tool that guides my modeling decisions while saving me time and money.
Hyperflow –from concept to client-ready in 7 weeks
Direct surface modeling. Every control point and curve under your control
What challenges do you avoid by using KeyShot as a design tool?
Without real-time design tools such as KeyShot the design workflow turns into the old telephone game – the message changes with every person it passes through. When a design has to travel through multiple hands, interpretations and layouts, the risks for the original vision to get lost are very high. In addition, you easily add weeks of back-and-forth, mounting costs, and a final product that may not reflect the designer’s original intent.
How do you use KeyShot in your day-to-day work?
KeyShot isn’t just for final renders – it’s a central part of my design process. The ability to explore color, material and finish(CMF) in real-time are essential. Take surface quality as an example: when you are able to visualize and see reflections and lighting flowing across your surfaces in real-time, you immediately understand where the surface needs work.
The KeyShot’s VR output lets me experience my design at 1:1 scale before any physical prototype exists. I’m able to walk around the vehicle, check proportions and validate the design in true spatial context.
Being able to validate the design so early in the process is a big time-saver!
“The render becomes a diagnostic tool that guides your modeling decisions while saving you time and money.”
What advice would you give to other designers?
The importance of visibility and positioning is integral to today’s design industry. The designers who are winning aren’t necessarily the most talented – they’re the most visible. I’d advise designers to create focused demo projects and share them strategically on social media. The combination of real-time workflows and personal branding build credibility, generate opportunities and deliver high-impact design work. From a business perspective, this approach has inevitably helped me attract international clients and consulting opportunities with hypercar and luxury brands.
