The starting point for designing a car typically involves market research, including in-house and field investigations, to identify the role of the product and its components in the global portfolio, as well as defining separation from existing products. This is followed by the styling or design of the new car, which is one of several factors that need to be decided when a car manufacturer decides to produce a new model. The design of a car involves a number of steps, including concept art, prototyping, testing, and production. The design process can take several years, from start to finish, and involves a team of designers, engineers, and other professionals working together to create a vehicle that meets the needs and desires of consumers.