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Design round-up: Polestar’s new concept; Nissan’s next city EV ; Volvo 40 series design updates
Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Volvo, Nissan, Polestar and people news
Nissan reveals the PIXO as its next electric a-segment city car
That’s right, another small city car is entering the scene – this time it’s Nissan offering up a compact electric car built for Europe.
Judging by the short teaser video, the PIXO will be a future-forward EV that prioritises UX through the use of AI features such as voice control. CDN muses that the dark plum background colour used at the end screen could perhaps hint at the exterior colour – but who knows? We’re just spitballing.
The PIXO is set to be revealed on 23 September 2026.
Full release here.
Polestar confirms Formula 2030 concept car
This concept will preview the design direction for the new Polestar 2 that is planned to launch in 2027 as well as the forthcoming Polestar 7.
Philipp Römers, head of design at Polestar, commented: “Polestar’s design and brand is already so strong, it was obvious we needed a bold evolution not revolution of what came before. Formula 2030 delivers this, showcasing our future while respecting brand-defining elements like the familiar dual blade headlights ensuring it remains recognisably a Polestar with a strong, characterful identity.”
This concept will be an interesting signal as to where Roemers, who took the top design job in August 2024, will lead the future of design at Polestar.
The concept will be revealed in October 2026.
Full release here.
Volvo 40 series design updates
The Volvo XC40, EX40 and EC40 have all undergone an exterior redesign led by a new light signature, an updated grille, front bumper, bonnet and front wings. At the rear, only the XC40 and EX40 benefit from a new tailgate and rear bumper, whereas the EC40 remains the same.
The interior design has also been updated with a larger 11.2-inch screen and the option for leather upholstery paired with Brown Ash wood décor elements.
Full release here.
People news
Parth Sharma has joined Tata Motors as senior manager of interior design.
As professional LinkedIn spies, the CDN team has spotted that Giovanny Arroba has changed his job title to former vice president at Nissan Design Europe. What could this mean? Who will replace him? Time (and our weekly round-up) will tell.
