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Design round-up: McLaren’s new supercar; Lepas Aura concept; Skoda’s 3D printable accessories
Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from McLaren, Lepas, Skoda and people news
McLaren announces new supercar
A new McLaren series supercar has been announced for 2027 – the McL 820. The 820 is a reference to the vehicle’s 820PS power output.
Further details will be announced in 2026.
Full release here.
Lepas Aura concept car
The Aura concept car was unveiled at the brand’s Global Elegance Night in Wuhu, China. The concept aims to evolve the ‘Leopard Aesthetics’ design language with stronger proportions and more expressive surfacing.
The Aura has a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a wide stance with the leopard-eye headlamps that the brand is becoming known for. Personalisation is a focus, with a digital display at the front of the car that can show adaptable graphics, lighting and animations while the rear display can display personalised taillight signatures.
Chief designer of Lepas, Ivan Dulanovic said: "In our philosophy, form and function are never two separate things. The Aura's stance follows the running leopard; it is lean, forward and efficient. The many air wings this car has guide the air through and over the car, helping to create downforce across the wide and powerful body of the car. The air itself helped shape this car, so to speak.”
Full release here.
Skoda launches 3D printable accessory range
Using the 3D printer community site Printables, Skoda has launched free 3D-printable accessories – including storage boxes, cable management tools and cupholders.
Users can download these accessories and print them at home (presuming they own a 3D printer, of course) to use in their Skoda vehicles. These assets have been designed by both engineers and designers.
Full release here.
People news
Pooja Maisheri has joined General Motors USA as lead CMF designer.
Claude Meyers, previous ArtCenter professor and user experience lead at Ford, has joined Caterpillar in the UI/UX department.
As of 1 December 2026, Sophie Li will join Audi China as head of design China. Li previously was head of Asia Pacific Design at Volvo Cars. Full news story here.
