"It’s about why things do what they do - why stuff works, why it doesn’t - and I think it’s something that we tend to exclude ourselves from."
Richard also wants to knuckle down to get a degree in physics, adding: “I haven’t studied in a long time but the last thing I did was all the stuff for my helicopter licence. There’s a lot of elemental physics in that.
“I loved the process of coming home with a massive pile of books and revising.”
Open Image Modal
Richard with Jeremy Clarkson and James May
While Richard will have some time on his hands after finishing hosting ‘Top Gear’, things don’t look set to stay that way for too long, as he, James May and Jeremy Clarkson have been linked to hosting a rival motoring show on ITV.
According to The Mirror, the trio will go head-to-head with their old show in the schedules when it is relaunched with Chris Evans at the helm.
Guy Martin is another star whose name has been mentioned often in relation to the presenting roles.
Jodie Kidd (02 of14)
Open Image Modal
Jodie was spotted enjoying lunch with Jeremy Clarkson in the wake of his sacking - does she already have his blessing? (credit:Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)
Suzi's name has also come up often, during talk of a shortlist. (credit:Dave J Hogan via Getty Images)
Philip Glenister (05 of14)
Open Image Modal
The actor's name has popped up often, and in May it was reported that he was in "advanced talks" with the BBC. (credit:Jon furniss/Invision/AP)
Will Mellor(06 of14)
Open Image Modal
In April, sources revealed that bosses were considering Will, in the hope that he'd bring "a younger audience" to the show. (credit:David M. Benett via Getty Images)
David Hasselhoff (07 of14)
Open Image Modal
The Hoff threw his hat into the ring last month, answering with a simple, "Why not?", when asked whether he'd be up for presenting the motoring show. (credit:KGC-143/STAR MAX/IPx)
Stephen Fry(08 of14)
Open Image Modal
Bookies William Hill are offering odds of 10/1 on TV star Stephen nabbing the role. (credit:ASSOCIATED PRESS)
James Blunt(09 of14)
Open Image Modal
James Blunt's also made the bookies' shortlist with odds of 12/1. (credit:ASSOCIATED PRESS)
Dermot O'Leary(10 of14)
Open Image Modal
Dermot's left the 'X Factor' behind, and he's already on the Beeb's books thanks to his Radio 2 show. (credit:Stuart C. Wilson via Getty Images)
Jake Humphrey(11 of14)
Open Image Modal
BT vision presenter Jake Humphrey is 8/1 to be a co-host. (credit:Karwai Tang via Getty Images)
Jamiroquai (12 of14)
Open Image Modal
Jamiroquai loves his cars - could he make the move to television? (credit:Sowetan via Getty Images)
Adrian Chiles (13 of14)
Open Image Modal
Well... he's not doing much at the moment is he? (credit:Tristan Fewings via Getty Images)
Nigel Mansell(14 of14)
Open Image Modal
We reckon former Formula One World Champion Nigel Mansell would be a perfect choice. (credit:ASSOCIATED PRESS)