Syd Mead is somewhat of an enigma, despite his work being some of the most viewed, shared and, inevitably, emulated by generations of designers past and present.

Two weeks ago, at our Car Design Night in Geneva, he joined Marcello Gandini and Giorgetto Giugiaro as the third recipient of the Car Design News’ Lifetime Achievement Award, which forms a key part of the annual Car Design Review yearbook.

We presented Mead with his award at his home and studio in Pasadena, California, where he shared his views on the future of mobility, gave his advice to fellow designers and allowed us into his fascinating world.