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Round-up: Honda Super-N, two new Hyundai concepts & Ford expands World HQ
Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Honda, Hyundai and Ford
Honda reveals design of the Super-N
Honda has unveiled a new compact EV – the Super-N – designed on the brand’s existing lightweight Kei car platform.
The EV has also taken inspiration from the 1980’s City Turbo II – with nods to this icon through the Super-N’s wide stance, circular lighting signature, sizable bumper, air ducts and pops of blue throughout the interior.
The interior is simple and clean. Ambient lighting across the dashboard changes to a rich purple when boost mode is selected and lots of tactile buttons are dotted throughout the dash – including on the steering wheel.
The Super-N's take on the Kei car represents a wider trend, as seen through the Dacia Hipster, Mitsubishi eK X, and Nissan and Mitsubishi’s joint venture of the NMKV.
Full release here.
Hyundai launches the Ioniq brand in China with two concepts
The Venus concept sedan and Earth concept family SUV have debuted in China and preview the future direction of the IONIQ lineup in the country.
As readers might have guessed, Hyundai is introducing a new naming convention tailored for China, with IONIQ models being named as planets, instead of numbers.
The Venus concept is finished in Radiant Gold with a transparent spoiler and one-curve silhouette giving it a sleek appearance. Inside, layered mood lighting surrounds suede and chrome-gold seatback covers.
The Earth concept appears sharper and more aggressive, combined with sculpted volumes. The interior features seating made from soft air modules and hidden map patterns of Beijing throughout the vehicle.
Full release here.
Ford converts former Product Development Centre into design and engineering hub
After the opening of Ford’s new World Headquarters in November 2025, the company is renovating its former PDC to become part of the HQ complex. The new addition will be called World Headquarters South.
Here, a dedicated design, engineering and prototype facility will be built. Ford Racing will also be moving to the building from off campus, with an aim to transfer knowledge more easily between the motorsport programme and customer vehicle development.
Construction begins in May and is scheduled for completion in 2029.
Full release here.
