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Car design round-up: Japan Mobility Show, Pangea donates and people moves
Car Design News takes a look at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Mini, Mazda, Honda and Suzuki
Shawn Campbell named Cadillac design manager – commission & personalisation
Shared in a LinkedIn update, Campbell announced his new position of design manager – commission & personalisation with Cadillac Celestiq.
Within the role, Campbell will be “shaping bespoke commissions by collaborating with exclusive clients to inspire the one-of-a-kind, ultra-luxury vehicle of their dreams.”
LinkedIn post here.
Pangea donates leather to Pingree Detroit
This donation marks the organisation’s largest single material contribution this year.
The hides – enough to make over 3,500 goods such as bags and wallets – will be transformed by local veterans and Detroit artists using Pingree’s upcycling design model.
Update here.
Japan Mobility Show 2025
Mini Paul Smith edition
Following the Mini Strip in 2021 and the Mini Recharged by Paul Smith in 2022, the British designer is bringing his ‘classic with a twist’ design language to the new Mini Cooper 3-door, 5-door and Convertible models.
Paul Smith commented: “It’s not often that you see two icons of British design work together in this way and it’s wonderful that our partnership has carried on over so many years. The Mini Paul Smith Edition has been a real privilege and a wonderful opportunity… new colours and new unexpected details that will be a welcomed surprise.”
Full release here.
Mazda premieres two Vision models
The Mazda Vision X-Coupe and the Mazda Vision X-Compact were also revealed at the Japan Mobility Show.
The Mazda Vision X-Coupe is a crossover coupe that aims to embody the ‘Kodo-Soul of Motion’ design language. Whereas the Mazda Vision X-Compact represents Mazda’s vision of the future of smart mobility.
Full release here.
Honda unveils new EV Super–N Prototype
The rise of the Kei car continues, with Honda unveiling the Super-N Prototype that precedes the Honda Super-N, a new compact EV that’s set to arrive in the UK from 2026.
The prototype is built on the lightest platform of the N Series ‘Kei’ car range sold in Japan. The exterior design is characterised by its wide stance, blister bumpers and aero ducts.
Inside, blue-accented asymmetrical seats and a clean horizontal instrument panel welcome the passenger.
Full release here.
Suzuki BEV minicar concept
And if you just couldn’t get enough of pocket-sized car concepts, Suzuki revealed the Vision e-Sky concept, which aims to be commercialised in 2026 for passengers who regularly use the mini car for daily transportation.
Measuring 3,395mm long by 1,475mm wide and 1,625mm high, this concept condenses an EV look and Suzuki’s design language into a compact body.
Full release here.
