< OUR WORK
Direct Auto / Metahuman
First Czech Metahuman / Unreal Engine 5
ABOUT
Humanizing the automotive world with the first Czech Metahuman
In a crowded automotive market, Direct Auto sought a way to stand out through emotion, friendliness, and modern technology. Our task was to bring to life Tomas—a digital avatar designed to be a reliable friend in the often-confusing world of car sales.
Created entirely within Unreal Engine 5, this project represents a shift in how brands communicate, moving away from traditional corporate imagery toward a Metahuman personality with his own humor, opinions, and distinct character.
CHALLENGE
Tomas isn't just a 3D model; he is a bridge
The vision, initiated by Direct Auto and agency Outbreak, was to create a character that embodies trust. Under the creative direction of Joanna Santarius and Michael Novacek, we developed a visual style and tonal soul for Tomas that is approachable and helpful. The digital showroom environment was designed to feel like a high-end skeletal sketch of reality ensuring the brand feels accessible rather than intimidating.
“What we valued most was their partner-like, ego-free approach. Even with frequent changes, the team always found ways to improve the result. Their flexibility and top-tier project management gave us full confidence, even as plans shifted in real-time.”
CRAFT
A seven-month technical odyssey
We implemented a full Unreal Engine 5 production pipeline, utilizing motion capture technology to translate a real actor's performance onto the digital Tomas in real-time. Using the engine allowed us to tweak the environment and character live with the client.
From cloth simulations to complex grooming for digital hair, we pushed the boundaries of what is possible in a commercial timeframe. Using tools like Houdini and Nuke alongside Unreal, we bridged the gap between game-engine speed and cinematic quality.
RESULT
Primary goal: ensuring Direct Auto now speaks a unique language of technology and character
The result is a highly distinctive 30-second hero spot, supported by short-form recuts for social media and OOH. Tomas has become a long-term asset for the brand, capable of appearing in everything from TV commercials to interactive online content.
APPROACH
The success of the project wasn't just in the pixels, but in the partnership
The client noted that our ego-free approach and transparency were the highlights of the seven-month journey. For Direct Auto, we stepped into the role of a creative agency, managing everything from technical execution to brand-level project management. Our ability to pivot under changing plans while maintaining emotional stability and kindness is what makes us different.
“One of the best collaborations of my career. For the first time, we weren't just vendors, but true partners where our expert word carried real weight. With a clear vision and transparent communication, we worked as one team—the client truly valued our opinion and our craft.”
Core team & partners
- Tomas Siegler
- Jakub Jonas
- Michael Novacek
- Joanna Santarius
- Michael Jurasek
- Linda Mikulaskova
- Michal “Amak” Stastny
- Marek Stolun
- Lenka Reiterova
- Julie Czigle
- Tomas Barvik
- Jan Reeh
- Jan Reeh
- Jaroslav Novotny
- Petr Kollarcik
- Petr Fousek
- Anna Vachova
- Jarka Chalasova
- Jakub Forman
- Tomas Mokrolusky
- Frantisek Bayer
- Zuzana Slechtova
- Tom Stockinger
- Mariia Prokopenko
- Simon Lansky
- Anya Bazhenova
- SYPE STUDIOS