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Originality in CMF: blueprints for emotional connection

Exclusive and invite-only event

8 April 2025 | Rossocorsa Milano Centro - Maserati Official Dealer, Milan, Italy


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Originality in CMF: blueprints for emotional connection

Exclusive and invite-only event

8 April 2025 | Rossocorsa Milano Centro - Maserati Official Dealer, Milan, Italy

Join the conversation #CDNMilan

APPLY FOR YOUR PASS NOW BECOME A PARTNER

Originality in CMF: blueprints for emotional connection

Exclusive and invite-only event
8 April 2025 | Rossocorsa Milano Centro - Maserati Official Dealer, Milan, Italy
Join the conversation #CDNMilan

APPLY FOR YOUR PASS NOW BECOME A PARTNER




OVERVIEW




Join us in Milan for the third exclusive design night on 8 April 2025. Taking place during the renowned Salone del Mobile, Car Design Dialogues Milan will delve into the idea of originality in CMF design.

CMF design is not just about standing out — it’s about crafting vehicles that resonate on an emotional level while reflecting the ethos of the brand. In an era of stiff competition, CMF has evolved into a key player, bridging aesthetics, sustainability, and consumer aspirations. At its core, originality in CMF design stems from a deep understanding of a brand’s DNA and its audience. That demands a nuanced and strategic approach to material choice, which can encompass a spectrum of recycled textiles, bio-based plastics, and advanced sustainable coatings to leathers, brushed metals and wood. CMF designers must understand their role from multiple aspects while harnessing the possibilities of new technology to create a true emotional connection with the customer.

This year’s discussions will focus on three pivotal themes shaping the future of CMF design:

Technology: Discover dynamic materials like colour-shifting paints, 3D-printed textures, and crystal finishes to create personalised and seamlessly functional automotive interiors and exteriors.

Sustainability: Explore the potential of new materials, from recycled textiles and bio-based plastics to traditional materials with exemplary provenance, to create new forms and aesthetics that align with a sustainable future.

Brand: Gain insights into how luxury and premium brands balance originality with customer expectations, ensuring CMF design reflects their identity while forging an emotional connection with users.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to join us for a thought-provoking evening, learn from top decision-makers, connect with industry leaders, and explore the future of automotive design in the vibrant heart of Milan.


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2025 Speakers






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Klaus Busse

Head of Design

Maserati

Speaker

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BIO


Klaus Busse is design director at legendary italian brand Maserati where he has overseen models such as the MC20 and MCXtrema. Busse also heads up Stellantis Design Studio, which adds another dimension to his creative role. Busse has worked in Italy for nearly a decade as head of design for Fiat, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Maserati. An experienced designer, Busse is well respected by his peers in the car industry and beyond.


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James McLachlan

Editor

Car Design News

Moderator

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BIO


James McLachlan is editor of Car Design News, Interior Motives and Car Design Review writing, commissioning and editing the editorial output across digital and print. A design journalist for 14 years, James is interested in the intersection between car design, urban planning, technology and culture.



Previous Attendees



CDN Milan 2023 - previous attendee logos

Testimonials



Thank you for organising a brilliant event here in Milan on Tuesday. I had a great time, it was wonderful to meet you in person and reconnect with so many colleagues and friends.

Florian Seidl, Design Manager, R&D Department Lavazza Group
What a Car Design Night thank you, Car Design News for the invitation. Creme de la creme of a design world under same roof and lively discussions.

Kostas, Stylidis CEO and founder at Intended Future, Scientific Advisor at Geely Design Center

2024 Highlights


Venue





Date: 8 April 2025

Time: 17:30 - 22:00

Location: Rossocorsa Milano Centro – Maserati Official Dealer
Viale di Porta Vercellina, 16, 20123 Milano

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Design Dialogues Archives






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