THX1138: Looking forward to seeing some more updates. Looking good so far though. Once you get the basic details you mentioned nailed down, you should be able to make some really good progress.
Legolas_hv: You're right about the importance of staying focused on the modeling. However in this case, the renderings are probably just for showing us different styles for feedback and progress.
Don't be satisfied with what you can do but rather strive to do the things you can't do!
Exceed Expectations!