Vehicle stunts range from precision driving in a tight commercial frame to full rigged wrecks on a feature. Each scale demands its own team, equipment package, and permitting — and a stunt coordinator who speaks the language of picture cars, transportation, and locations.
Categories of automotive action
- Precision driving — lane changes, slides, close proximity, camera car sync
- Heated driving — higher speed with controlled environment
- Rigged gags — cannon rolls, pipe ramps, cable pulls
- Drag work — interaction with talent on foot or on vehicle
Planning with locations and legal
Road closures, police coordination, and insurance certificates take weeks on real streets. Parking-lot work is simpler but still needs surface prep, debris control, and medic presence. Budget location fees against stunt complexity — a cheap lot with no run-off room is not cheap when you reshoot.
Picture cars vs. stunt rigs
Hero vehicles are often beauty cars; stunt rigs carry roll cages, stunt brakes, and cut roofs for camera. Coordinators specify which vehicle does which beat so the edit stays consistent.
Camera integration
Process trailers, Russian arms, and drone coverage each change driving lines. Rehearse with the actual camera platform — a driver who only rehearsed without a arm attached will miss marks on the day.
Vehicle days tie directly into safety protocols — exclusion zones, fire suppression for crashes, and clear abort paths are standard on professional sets.