Register now: Key CMF trends and expectations
Join us for this CDN editorial livestream to discuss new trends and expectations in CMF for 2026 and beyond.
Register below
Just as tyres are the only point of contact between car and road, CMF defines the connection between car and driver.
Everything passengers can see and touch has been carefully considered by designers who must blend innovation and tradition, finding new alternatives to tried-and-trusted solutions, or championing natural materials that have been ethically sourced.
The Car Design News team is joined by a panel of experts to discuss all this, as well as forecasting key trends and expectations for 2026 and beyond.
Date: 18 February 2026
Time: 15:00 GMT | 10:00 EST | 16:00 CET
Format: Online livestream
Join us as we tackle the topics of:
Which innovations are showing promise, and what is just a pipedream?
How are 2025 forecasts playing out?
Colour trends that have caught our eye
How is the role of CMF evolving
Expectations for Milan Design Week 2026
Speaker
Marilia Biill
head of CMF design
Kia
With over 20 years experience in the automotive industry, Marilia led very diverse teams at VW, Porsche and Nio in three different countries. From the vibrant South American market to the complex European environment, she now explores the opportunities the Korean wave brings for the car industry.
David Hopwood
CMF design chief
Mahindra Advanced Design Europe
With over 25 years of creative leadership across automotive, marine, rail, and industrial design, David’s work blends craftsmanship, innovation, and emotional connection. His work champions innovation, sustainability, and quality, curating colour, material, and finish strategies that create unified, meaningful experiences. A storyteller at heart, David believes great design is felt as much as it is seen.
Steve Stanforth
CMF design chief
London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC)
Steve leads colour, material, and finish strategy across both global and China‑market programs, ensuring premium and cohesive execution from concept to production. Leveraging trend analysis and consumer insight, his team drives material innovation and delivers CMF solutions with broader market relevance. His work spans cross‑functional collaboration, supplier engagement, and design leadership across the group’s portfolio.
Moderator
Freddie Holmes
deputy editor
Car Design News
