Land Rover Launch Film

Land Rover has introduced a new version of the Defender, named Octa. We are excited to share with you the official Launch Film that we’ve had the pleasure of working on.

Project Overview

Pebble Studios teamed up with the talented folks at Imagination and AETRAL to bring the new limited edition Land Rover Defender OCTA to life with a striking 3D animation. Our team poured their creativity into crafting a visually compelling experience that not only showcases the vehicle’s design but also captures its rugged performance and style. Through dynamic environments, reactive soundwaves, and detailed animations, we illustrated the power of OCTA, all perfectly timed to the rhythm of an intensifying soundtrack.

3D modeling

Since the new vehicle was still in development and under a strict embargo, Pebble’s initial task was to create a highly detailed 3D model. After visiting JLR’s ‘Q-Branch’ facility in Warwickshire, where Pebble captured a wealth of stills and videos of the work-in-progress vehicle, we meticulously textured and coloured the 3D model to perfectly match the reference images. We then optimised the model to ensure it was ready for photorealistic renders, which we provided as still images and seamlessly integrated into our animation.

Reference images:

Technical Animation

The entire suspension system functions as a single unit, incorporating air springs, the steering mechanism, drive rods, rubber bellows, control arms, brake calipers, and brake discs. The system’s optimization was preceded by a hierarchical model structure, ensuring proper material usage throughout.

Engine

The V8 engine animation captures the oscillating motion of the connecting rods and pistons attached to the crankshaft, the chain-driven camshafts, and the rotation of the valve train and rocker arms. This is combined with dynamic material transitions relative to the car’s movement, showcasing the metamorphosis and formation of the components as the engine comes to life.

Wheels and Suspension

One of the most complex elements of the animation was the suspension system. The rigging had to be meticulously crafted to accurately replicate real-world dynamics, allowing the suspension to adapt seamlessly to the off-road terrain. The wheels are triggered by a ground detector, which activates the skeleton attached to the wheels, handling interactions and constraints. This approach brought the air-sprung double wishbone suspension to life, ensuring realistic and responsive movement.

The Rig

Complex mechanical parts are designed to work realistically, adapting to uneven ground. The suspension system, including control arms and drive rods, is rigged with accurate kinematic constraints, allowing it to follow the terrain smoothly. This ensures the system performs well and stays strong, no matter the surface.

The entire suspension system functions as a single unit, incorporating air springs, the steering mechanism, drive rods, rubber bellows, control arms, brake calipers, and brake discs. The system’s optimization was preceded by a hierarchical model structure, ensuring proper material usage throughout.

Octa Mode

OCTA mode represents the culmination of our animation, a pivotal moment that encapsulates the essence of what the car is capable of. In the final sequence, we switch our blueish white hue to a dramatic scarlet red, synchronised with the corresponding shift in the music. As the transition unfolds, our environment dynamically responds, presenting a more rugged terrain that skill-fully showcases the capabilities of OCTA’s ABS and 6D suspension systems.

​​​​​​​Production: Pebble Studios
3D Technical Animations: AETRAL Group

Read more:
https://pebblestudios.co.uk/portfolio-item/land-rover/