The success of SUVs has been remarkable story but has brought with it an aesthetic homogeneity. Can designers harness electrification and new technology to reinvigorate the segment?
Predictable, safe and a little dull. For many, this is a fair description of the SUVs that have flooded the market over the past few years. These new models often look identical to ones that have come before, suggesting a lack of ideas or perhaps an unwillingness to push the boundaries of design. It is understandable – SUVs, after all, sell incredibly well. So much so that the format’s success has, in the US market, precipitated a steep decline in the three-box sedan. But success can breed complacency, and now the challenge for designers is to reinvigorate the format.
“It’s natural that automakers want the broadest possible appeal in the largest segment at this point in time,” says Todd Willing, Ford’s global design director, trucks and SUVs. “The inputs are likely to be similar; near-term trends, analysis of competitive offerings, and even testing advanced product with customers of today as companies seek assurance that their investments are well placed can tend to limit larger shifts in either formats or aesthetics. Exceptions to this can be those that are more focused with authentic purpose and iconic heritage that create a deeper connection with owners.” Amid the homogeneity there have been some notable successes.
This content is available to subscribers only | Sign in
Unlock exclusive design knowledge, inspiration & connection.
Knowledge
Inspiration
Billed as $194 annually
Other currencies: £149 / €179 annually
Available to new subscribers only
Knowledge
Inspiration
Connection
Billed as $259 annually
Other currencies: £199 / €239 annually
Knowledge
Inspiration
Connection
Billed as $389 annually
Other currencies: £299 / €359 annually
Explore more subscription options.
For help with individual user subscriptions please contact:
Eric Ng
Eric.Ng@ultimamedia.com
For help with multi user subscriptions please contact:
Angela Yang
Angela.Yang@cardesignnews.com
The second generation has been pared back inside and out, reducing visual clutter and bringing what the design team see as more of a traditional BMW look and feel
Mercedes-Benz has deepened its relationship with fashion brand Moncler through a new project that has given the iconic G-Class a puffer jacket, among other things. The launch event – and collaboration as a whole – was pushed under the moniker of ‘Past Forward’ through which “the future is driven ...
The stocky two-seater sportscar from 1969 is getting a new look
