Register now: Lighting design: stand out, or risk blending in
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While lighting is often touted as a key brand identifier, the reality is that the down-road graphic (DRG) has become rather homogenous of late.
Horizontal lightbars, vertical foglights and decorative LEDs have become the new standard, and although some brands do manage to stand out, it is all starting to feel a little familiar.
In this livestream, we bring together designers who are in the thick of the discussion to discuss topics including:
The role of the supplier and technology innovations
How to create a signature that stands out, both from a distance and up close
Has the influence of exterior lighting has gone too far?
Are smart headlamps smart enough – why do we still feel blinded?
Sources of inspiration beyond automotive to find new styles and applications
Speakers
Andrea Amato
head of design and advanced design, Ducati
Andrea Amato has been head of design and advanced design at Ducati since June 2022.
He studied Transportation Design at IAAD, with a thesis developed in collaboration with Ferrari, and after a stint at Honda R&D Europe as a junior motorcycle designer, joined Ducati in 2014 as a senior motorcycle designer.
In his current role he defines the stylistic direction of future Ducati models, preserving the brand's identity, values, and iconic traits. He leads the creative team throughout the entire development process and coordinates advanced design activities for new concepts and product visions, working on models such as the Hypermotard 950, Panigale V2, Multistrada V4, Monster 937, and Panigale V4/V4 R.
He has contributed to special projects such as the V21L Moto-E and the Panigale V4 Superleggera Centenario. Recent models such as the Diavel for Bentley, the Panigale V4 Lamborghini, the XDiavel V4, and the Streetfighter V4/V2 were also developed under his guidance.
His work combines innovation, stylistic consistency, and a focus on the evolution of the Ducati language. He is now a key figure in defining the future design of the Borgo Panigale-based company.
Philippe Poilane
head of lighting and wheels, Stellantis EU Brands Desgin
Philippe Poilane is an experienced automotive design and engineering leader with nearly three decades of expertise spanning vehicle design, innovation and motorsport engineering.
Since 2023, he has served as Head of Lighting and Wheels for Stellantis EU Brands Design. Prior to this, Philippe spent more than 16 years at Peugeot Design as Head of Lighting and Wheels (2006–2022), where he played a key role in shaping the visual identity and design language of Peugeot vehicles through innovative lighting signatures and wheel designs.
Philippe combines deep technical knowledge with design leadership, bringing extensive experience in vehicle styling, component innovation, engineering integration and brand-defining automotive design. He is based in Paris.
Moderator
James McLachlan
editor-in-chief, Car Design News
James McLachlan is editor-in-chief 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 17 years, James is interested in the intersection between car design, urban planning, technology and culture.
