In an impressive fan-driven collaboration, 3D artists Shantanu Mishra and Alps Chikodikar have recreated the iconic Vuvalini bike from Mad Max: Fury Road, bringing cinematic realism to a production-quality 3D asset using industry-standard tools.
The bike, inspired by the 2010 Yamaha R1 used by the Vuvalini warriors in the film, was meticulously modeled by Shantanu Mishra in Autodesk Maya, with cloth and fabric elements simulated in Marvelous Designer. Despite limited on-screen reference material, Mishra conducted in-depth research using high-resolution images, technical diagrams, and video breakdowns to ensure accuracy.
According to Mishra, replicating fine mechanical details—from tire treads to complex engine components—was among the most challenging aspects of the project. Special attention was paid to the seat and saddle, focusing on leather material quality, as well as the brake system, where realism and correct form were critical. The cloth bags and fabric accessories underwent multiple simulation passes in Marvelous Designer to achieve natural interaction with the bike’s structure, while wiring and mechanical connections were carefully studied to create a believable, production-ready model.
The texturing and rendering were handled by Alps Chikodikar, who used Substance 3D Painter for detailed surface work and Marmoset Toolbag for final presentation. Chikodikar explained that the project allowed her to fully showcase her skills as a Texturing and Lookdev Artist, especially since much of her professional work on Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga was intentionally obscured by heavy dust and FX in the final shots.
The final result is a highly realistic and visually striking recreation that captures the rugged, post-apocalyptic aesthetic of the Mad Max universe while maintaining technical precision. The artists have shared detailed renders and breakdowns on their ArtStation profiles, offering insight into their workflow and creative process.
This project stands as a strong example of how passion, research, and collaboration can bring iconic film assets to life in the world of 3D art.