Review: Staffordshire University degree show 2024
Car Design News covers the work of this year’s Automotive and Transport Design graduates at Staffordshire University
Students from Staffordshire University’s transportation design course put on a show last week to celebrate their graduation, showcasing their final year projects in front of friends, family, colleagues and potential employers.
It was a display of the fundamentals of modern design, be it ideation, modelling, prototyping or visualisation – skills which have been built up over the three-year course in preparation for life in a professional studio. “Our Automotive and Transport Design course replicates the dynamic environment of a professional design studio,” Dan Lewis, design course director, told Car Design News, “with students collaborating on live industry projects. The modest class sizes ensure lots of one-to-one support and a truly personalised experience for each student.”
As with most grad shows, industry guests were invited along to see the fruits of this labour, including OEMs like Bentley, General Motors (not far away in Leamington Spa), Mahindra Advanced Design Europe, LEVC and Lotus; plus various design service suppliers such as Kadence, Optic, Contra Moto, Futura, Winch Design, HPL Prototypes and more.
“This year’s degree show was a tremendous success, attracting many visitors throughout the week,” adds Lewis. “Some students have already secured jobs and placements, while others are applying to MA courses at Staffordshire University and beyond. As a teaching team, we are incredibly proud of our students and their achievements. The quality of the visualisations and models, all created by the students, is a testament to their dedication and talent.”
With all that said, let’s take a look at this year’s graduate projects, with descriptions provided by the students themselves.
Jaguar X-Type by Niall Lucas
A design engineered on the predatory anatomy from which the brand derives its name, the Jaguar X-Type offers lean power through a comfort-focused platform able to provide peak performance at the fringes of terrain and a rear encompassing bench seat to appreciate true adventure.
Citroen DS Grandeur by Ollie Rommelrath
The luxury Citroen DS Grandeur embodies the concept of a land yacht, designed for adventurous journeys. Its sleek exterior and expansive interior redefine sophisticated travel, while also evolving Citroen’s brand DNA for a new segment.
Dakar Rally: Lotus Umbra by Fahim Ali
The Lotus Umbra epitomises the fusion of precision and power. Built to conquer the unforgiving terrain of the Dakar Rally, this machine is a testament to Lotus’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance. A sleek, aerodynamic design with cutting-edge technology and a robust suspension system, the Lotus Umbra tackles the harshest landscapes with unwavering confidence.
Dacia Traversa by Taylor McGraw
The Dacia Traversa is the unrivalled companion for alpine skiing. The divided interior brings together the best of comfort and functionality, offering a compact package whilst boasting offroad capability. Suited for life on the streets or the slopes.
Polestar Eclipse by Erki Klamas
This groundbreaking concept extends Polestar’s contemporary DNA into the world of logistics. As a symbol of Polestar’s forward-thinking approach, Eclipse presents the future of commercial transportation solutions.
Rolls Royce Ribbon Tail by Seb Horbacz
The Ribbon Tail is not only a vehicle, it is a piece of art inspired by the Rolls Royce Spirit of Ecstasy. This luxury car, a future collector’s item, celebrates the fusion of art, design and craftsmanship.
Hyundai La Parva by Jess Teasdale
Inspired by extreme sports and the Chilean mountains, the La Parva is a compact and capable pickup for adventurers. The supermini footprint and the adaptable “loop-back” make this a perfect partner for hitting the slopes and trails.
Kadence Day3 Hydrogen Concept by Michael Coyne
The Kadence Day3 Concept is a fully autonomous, hydrogen-powered ride-hailing service. Devised to supply affordable city travel, the Kadence Day3 Concept provides a solution to resolve future economic and environmental challenges through hydrogen fuel cell technology.
Nightstar Sleeper Train by Jonathan Stock
Europe’s fastest sleeper train, at the forefront of Europe’s rail renaissance. Passengers wake up at their destination refreshed and nourished thanks to comfortable beds and a full restaurant service. High speeds make it possible to cross the continent in a single night.
Ocean Liner Century by Tyler Evans
Introducing the Ocean Liner Century, a ground-breaking addition to the maritime world. This sleek and majestic ocean liner heralds a new era of luxury travel blending timeless elegance with contemporary Art Deco styling, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Bentley Speed Six (The Blue Train) by Anton Toth
Bentley Speed Six is an electric reinterpretation of the legendary Speed 61/2 litre that competed in the famous race against the French Le Train Bleu in 1930. This project aims to recreate the spirit of that car: power, passion for adventure and insane speed. An automobile designed purely for performance.
Mazda Hikari – 2030 Formula D Concept by Ahtsham Rehman
Introducing the Mazda Hikari Electric Drift Car, a fusion of cutting-edge electric performance and timeless Japanese automotive heritage designed specifically for Formula D. Drawing inspiration from the iconic aesthetics of classic Japanese cars, this electric marvel seamlessly blends retro flair with modern performance.
