Car design round-up: Volvo, Renault and Mini
Car Design News takes a look at some of the stories that may have gone under the radar this week. Read on for the latest from Volvo, Renault and Mini
Hyundai’s new movable sound system
Hyundai Mobis pushes into premium in-vehicle audio with the development of a movable sound system synchronised with the movement of the display installed in the cockpit, aiming to enhance in-car entertainment and user experience.
The system adjusts speaker angles based on the display’s position, so the sound quality is optimised in different driving scenarios. This is part of Hyundai’s bigger plan to integrate next-gen display and sound technology into future mobility solutions.
Full release here.
Kia teases three EV concepts
Ahead of the 2025 Kia EV day, the South Korean automobile manufacturer has teased three upcoming EVs – the EV4, PV5 van and EV2 concept.
Kia EV4’s design will be revealed on 17th February, Kia PV5 on 20th February and Kia Concept EV2 on 27th February.
From the limited teaser pictures released, the PV5 is a boxy mid-sized model, clearly aimed at both commercial and personal van enthusiasts. The sporty EV4 features sharp lines and a resemblance to the EV6. Perhaps the most interesting of the three, the Concept EV2 appears to have a minimalistic yet playful aesthetic – perfect for a compact city car.
Mini unveils new design extras
Personalisation is, again, on the rise and now Mini has released a range of additions and optional extras to pimp up the British classic.
The star of the show is the Union Jack soft-top roof option for the Mini Cooper Convertible, adding a classic flair to the vehicle when the roof is closed.
Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper Convertible colour ranges have extended to include nine additional exterior paint options – Legend Grey, Sunnyside Yellow, Ocean Wave Green, Melting Silver, Icy Sunshine Blue, Midnight Black II, Nanuq White, British Racing Green IV and Chili Red.
And if that’s not a wide enough colour selection, there’s a model-exclusive Copper Grey for the Mini Cooper Convertible too.
The Mini Countryman has nine new exterior paint choices: Melting Silver III, Midnight Black II, Nanuq White, British Racing Green, Blazing Blue, Chili Red, Legend Grey, Smokey Green & Slate Blue.
Full release here.
Peugeot doubles down on EVs
The French automobile brand hosted their E-Lion Day D025 on Friday 14 February. During the livestream, Peugeot hightlighted the five seater version of the E5008 as well as a seven-seat large SUV version of the E5008.
The five brand pillars were also explored – electric, efficiency, experience, environment and education. It was clear that Peugeot are going to continue producing electric cars packed with clever tech.
Renault reveals three LCVs
Renault is redefining electric light commercial vehicles with its new Estafette, Goelette and Trafic models, which are built on flexible SVD (software-defined vehicle) architecture.
Developed in collaboration with Flexis, these French-built E-Tech electric vans offer advanced connectivity, safety and cost efficiency.
At a press conference in January with Flexis, CEO Phillippe D’Ivry commented: “Digitalising all the product design of our engineering work allows us to generate all those virtual reality images and movies. That’s the trick because the difficulty when you’re producing a vehicle like that, with the highest quality standard of the car industry, is that the tools are extremely expensive.”
The fourth generation Trafic E-Tech has a clean and crisp profile, maximising interior space with a short front overhand and extended wheelbase while maintaining agility. A backlit Renault logo and sleek DRLs add a futuristic touch.
Focusing on versatility, the Goelette E-Tech is available in three versions: a chassis cab, box and tipper. The rear design is minimalistic, enabling extensive customization and making it an ideal blank canvas for businesses wanting tailored solutions. The rear lights are simple, yet elegant and enhance the practicality of the vehicle.
Last, but certainly not least,is the Estafette E-Tech, a nod to Renault’s 1960s icon. The Estafette E-Tech is made for the city with a three-piece panoramic windscreen and roller shutter rear door for easy access.
CEO Phillippe D’Ivry also highlighted Flexis vehicle solutions are “100% electric, 100% designed for urban use, 100% connected and digital and 100% adaptable.”
Full release here.
Skoda adds more models to the Elroq launch lineup
Skoda is spicing up its upcoming Elroq line-up with fresh additions, including a sleek new SportLine trim. Think of the Elroq as the Enyaq’s edgier little sibling, Skoda’s next-generation, electric SUV, now with a wider offering to suit varying tastes.
Leading the charge is the SportLine 85, bringing a sharper stance, gloss-black detailing and a lowered sportier suspension setup. The 60 variant offers a more budget-friendly balance of performance and style, but with the same 20-inch Asterion black alloy wheels along with a front bumper spoiler and rear apron insert finished in gloss black.
Skoda has also introduced the Elroq SE L 60 and Elroq Edition 60, bridging the gap between base models and the higher-spec offerings. These models feature premium touches like a leather-heated multifunction steering wheel and heated front seats.
The Elroq Edition also includes privacy glass with acoustic side windows, 19-inch Regulus anthracite alloy wheels and dark chrome roof rails.
Full release here.
New Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester e-BOXER has arrived in UK showrooms, with a redesigned exterior and interior giving the vehicle a rugged appeal suitable for both everyday use and more adventurous driving.
Interior noise levels have been refined and reduced alongside a new 11.6-inch infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility that sits seamlessly within the contemporary dashboard. The exterior is defined by sharp, modern LED headlights and a more sculpted grille – boosted by the 220mm ground clearance and bold body lines,
Practicality is evident through the 508-litre boot and an extensive glass area to improve all-round vision. Safety is also a major focus, with the innovative emergency driving stop system implemented.
Full release here.
Volvo releases EX30 Cross Country model
The Volvo EX30 Cross Country has been unveiled, resembling the EX30, but with an off-road twist.
The EX30 Cross Country is fully electric and is designed for challenging terrains. The EX30 is raised higher off of the ground and has larger wheels (with the option of 18-inch all-terrain accessory tyres).
The front shield of the car and boot lid will get a special dark colour, with the front featuring a piece of artwork showing the topography of the Kebnekaise Mountain range in Arctic Sweden. Completing the rugged look are chunky front and rear skidplates and wheel arch extensions.
Inside, the car prioritises function, with the doors containing large storage compartments thanks to the removal of the speakers (which are now incorporated into the soundbar). There’s also a neat place to store a drink on the go, with a central storage tunnel between the driver and passenger that can be slid out as a cup holder.
Full release here.
We did a thing
Did you catch our most recent livestream? Broadcast from Munich, Car Design News explores the future of German automotive design with a trio of experts from Audi.
Expect expert insight into the integration of sustainability within design practices, the role of emerging technology and how the next generation of designers are shaping the future of design.
Massimo Frascella, chief creative officer at Audi, puts it simply: “When I think of German car design I think of precision, excellence, quality and progressive.”
Xpeng launches in the UK with two new models
Xpeng has officially entered the UK market with the electric G6 and people carrier X9.
Car Design News attended the launch event, read our coverage here.
ZF Lifetec designs the Active Heel Airbag
Designed to increase protection against injuries in front seats, the Active Heel Airbag from ZF Lifetec is a step forward in automotive safety, protecting an often-overlooked area.
This airbag complements the frontal restraint system, which consists of the seat belt and front airbag and works by creating a stable heel impact point. This airbag can be integrated into the footwell without needing additional space and in the event of a crash, inflates under the floor carpet to provide heel stability.
Full release here.
