March Focus: Materials

If car design were a recipe, materials would be more than just the icing on the cake. Today, materials are embedded in the car design process from the very beginning.

This month Car Design News is diving deep into the ever-changing world of materials. CDN will explore how the evolution of materials is transforming the design process, from smart surfaces that add intelligence to interiors, to sustainable solutions that rewrite the rulebook.

Designers are experimenting with innovative materials that not only look visually appealing but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Yet, the challenge lies in balancing sustainability with the desired quality of performance and durability. Ensuring these materials meet the design vision without compromising on texture, comfort or even smell is a delicate task and leads to the question: how is the modern designer working effectively with traditional and new materials?

The rise of technology in the design process has opened new possibilities for material innovation, allowing designers to push boundaries. Advanced digital tools, such as 3D modelling software, enable designers to test and refine materials virtually before physical prototypes are created. These advancements also challenge designers to stay ahead of the technological curve – so, what do these heightened expectations and intuitive tools mean for the design industry?

In complete contrast, materials are now being celebrated for what they are. In the past, raw materials have been covered in something to make them look pretty or more expensive, but now designers have called off the charade. Materials get to be themselves and be appreciated for it – think aluminium so perfectly machined it makes engineers misty eyed. It’s all about honesty and finishes that age like fine wine.

With suppliers now more integrated into the developmental process than ever before, collaboration between OEMs and suppliers has evolved to encompass a more seamless exchange of skills. However, while this evolution is a positive step, there remains ample opportunity for suppliers to drive forward-thinking solutions that push the boundaries of CMF (speaking of, take our Colour, Materials & Finish Trend Survey 2025 here).

In a world where customers expect innovation and emotion, materials are doing more heavy lifting than ever. So, what’s next? Keep up to date with us at CDN to discover more.