Car Design Dialogues Detroit 2026

Join CDN in downtown Detroit this October

CDN's flagship North American event shifts to an exciting new venue in downtown Detroit 

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A new chapter begins for Car Design Dialogues Detroit in 2026. 

Returning this October with a new look, new venue and an expanded all-day format, the event continues its focus on bringing together the designers and creative leaders shaping the future of automotive design. 

Taking place at The Department at Hudson's, the evolved programme creates more space for discussion around the ideas, technologies and materials redefining the vehicle experience - from HMI and UX to interior design and CMF. 

The full-day agenda will feature workshops running alongside the main plenary sessions, creating further opportunities for deeper discussion across the design community. The programme is now available to explore, with further developments to the agenda and speaker line-up still to come. 

For the first time, a limited number of supplier passes will also be introduced, offering select partners the opportunity to join conversations taking place between senior OEM design leaders. 

OEM attendance will remain complimentary, while supplier participation will be carefully limited, helping maintain the focused and collaborative nature of the event. For organisations looking to play a more visible role within the programme and the wider design conversation, a small number of partnership opportunities are also available. 

The goal, however, remains unchanged: Car Design Dialogues Detroit remains first and foremost a forum for OEM designers to connect, exchange ideas and discuss the future of vehicle design. 

And of course, one tradition continues. The day will conclude with a renowned Designer Night, where the wider design community gathers to continue the conversation in a relaxed, informal setting. 

Further details are available on the event website.