Hongik University Transportation Design degree show highlights Car Design News takes a look at work from the graduating 2026 students from Hongik University's transportation design course Lucy Abbott
Exclusive: Pierre Leclercq on his surprise move to Opel-Vauxhall The Belgian designer is synonymous with Citroen but just weeks after the historic preview of a new 2CV, he has taken on a new role in Germany. CDN caught up with him to find out why Freddie Holmes
Leclercq joins Opel as Adams retires A surprise move sees Pierre Leclercq replace Mark Adams as Opel's head of design. Meanwhile, Sandeep Bhambra takes over at Citroën and DS and Thierry Metroz lands a strategic design role Freddie Holmes
Beloved design journalist Guy Bird has passed away The brilliant journalist and friend Guy Bird has passed away. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time Car Design News
Peugeot on channelling heritage without going retro Peugeot is one of many brands digging into its bountiful back catalogue of GTI icons. Michaël Trouvé explains the process of celebrating that history without straying into ‘retro’ territory Freddie Holmes
“The future of design will lean heavily on CMF and UX” – Stellantis’ VP CMF Rossella Guasco CDN caught up with Rossella Guasco to discuss how she maintains brand uniqueness across the nine Stellantis brands through CMF Lucy Abbott
Exclusive: Sophie Li to lead Audi China design Former Volvo Asia Pacific design chief Sophie Li will head up Audi China from 1 December James McLachlan
"What a privilege to work on something that truly moves the transportation game onwards" Ian Kettle, senior vehicle design manager at Tesla, sits down with Car Design News in Detroit to chat about the recently revealed Cybercab and autonomous vehicle design more broadly Car Design News
What makes a design icon? Audi TT, Fiat Panda and Jaguar XJ13 offer some clues From the enduring simplicity of the Audi TT to the democratic ingenuity of the Fiat Panda and the extraordinary proportions of the Jaguar XJ13, three leading automotive designers explored what makes a design truly iconic at Car Design Dialogues Detroit Car Design News
"We need to be the inspiration for the global automotive industry" Sandy Hudson, VP of business development at the Detroit-based Automotive Hall of Fame, speaks to Car Design News Car Design News
"Personalisation is important to create emotional connection" Dario Lauriola, senior design manager at Italdesign, speaks at Car Design Dialogues 2026 on growth in the US, personalisation and future UX Car Design News
Craft and character: Why automotive interiors are rediscovering their human touch As carmakers grapple with cost pressures, faster development cycles and increasingly sophisticated technology, designers from General Motors, Stellantis and Lucid discuss how materials, craftsmanship and restraint can bring personality back to the automotive interior James McLachlan
Tobias Sühlmann on the Mission S and the future of Porsche’s design language CDN correspondent Laura Burstein gets the inside scoop from Porsche’s new VP of design on the eve of the brand’s mid-engine supercar concept debut. Laura Burstein
‘Being a hot sketcher is no longer enough’ – Michael Check on the changing demands of car design Linkage president Michael Check joins CDN on the Orange Sofa to discuss Detroit’s creative resurgence, the changing demands on automotive designers and how AI could accelerate development without compromising creativity James McLachlan
Designing freedom: the evolution of the road trip As vehicles become digital-first, electrified and able to handle parts of the drive themselves, how can designers preserve the freedom and enjoyment that lies at the heart of a good old fashioned road trip? Car Design News
Design beyond automotive: How outside influences shape compelling products Design leaders from General Motors, Mazda, Lincoln and Gensler discuss how architecture, fashion, human behaviour and more are influencing the next generation of automotive experiences Car Design News
Why DCA refuses to fake it Inside DCA’s Warwick studios, ideas are built, broken, tested and perfected. Car Design News discovers a fiercely hands-on culture where craftsmanship and engineering turn ambitious concepts into something real James McLachlan
Winner of Automotive Hall of Fame Global Scholars Award announced The College for Creative Studies transportation design student was recognised for his creativity and potential, before joining senior figures from General Motors and CCS to discuss the future of automotive design Car Design News
The changing face of automotive design leadership At Car Design Dialogues Detroit 2026, design leaders from GM, Ford, Stellantis and Scout Motors discussed why creative leadership increasingly depends on trust, empathy and the ability to challenge convention Car Design News
Can you design an automotive icon? Cadillac, Dodge and Calty designers on creating cars that endure At Car Design Dialogues Detroit 2026, designers from General Motors, Dodge and Calty discussed the challenge of creating automotive icons, reinventing established nameplates and why the true value of a halo vehicle extends beyond sales figures Car Design News
In memoriam: Marc Deschamps (1944-2026) The quietly brilliant French car design maestro Marc Deschamps has passed away, aged 82 Guy Bird
SPD Transportation and Car Design MA degree show review 2026 Approaching 29 years of running its Master’s programme, Scuola Politecnica Di Design (SPD) showcases the 2026 graduate projects for Transportation and Car Design Lucy Abbott
Edgar Chu on designing the HWA EVO Speaking to CDN at the CDE Classic, former AMG designer and REV Auto Design founder Edgar Chu explains how he balanced the unmistakable identity of the 190 E Evo II with radically different proportions, surfacing and technology James McLachlan
CDN People Awards 2026 shortlist revealed The CDN People Awards is back for 2026. Did your team make the shortlist? Read on to find out! Car Design News
Car design round-up: Pajero, Porsche and electric Range Rover Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Porsche, Mitsubishi and recent people news Freddie Holmes
Exclusive: Armin Hobrücker promoted as Sophie Li exits Volvo’s Shanghai design studio Changes are afoot at Volvo’s Shanghai design operation, with Armin Hobrücker stepping up following the departure of Asia Pacific design chief Sophie Li James McLachlan
Function, identity and AI: Bart van Lotringen on the future of truck design DAF Trucks' design director explains why function remains fundamental to truck design, how regulation has unlocked new creative opportunities and why AI is already changing the traditional studio James McLachlan James McLachlan
Introducing the new Car Design News membership Car Design News is moving beyond the traditional subscription model, creating more opportunities for the global design community to meet, exchange ideas and learn from one another James McLachlan
Holistic design is about going deeper – Royal College of Art’s Chris Thorpe RCA’s head of programme for the Intelligent Mobility MA course delves into holistic mobility, the wider ecosystem and how autonomy might change this Lucy Abbott
Tips and tricks on how to break into the car design industry Car Design News rounds up all of the best advice from top designers across the globe to help you become a car design expert Lucy Abbott
Pforzheim MA summer 2026 degree show highlights In the second part of our Pforzheim summer 2026 degree show coverage, Car Design News takes a look at the MA Thesis, semester one and two work Lucy Abbott
T. Jon Mayer to head up Bentley exterior design T. Jon Mayer takes on an expanded role at Bentley, adding head of exterior design to his head of design operations position. Meanwhile, Domen Rucigaj has turned up at Porsche as head of exteriors James McLachlan
Chinese design school builds a working car Students at the China Academy of Art have showcased an array of interesting projects, including one full-size fully working prototype Freddie Holmes
Pforzheim Transportation Design BA Summer 2026 show highlights The German university showcased the work of the graduating Transportation Design BA students, with projects ranging from rubbish collection trucks to a concept inspired by punk subculture… Lucy Abbott
Matthew Weaver on his promotion to design director Matthew Weaver has been named Nissan’s next design director; Car Design News caught up with Weaver to learn more about what this promotion means to him Lucy Abbott
Exclusive: David Woodhouse joins McLaren as chief creative officer VP of Nissan Design America and former Lincoln design director reunites with Kemal Curić as McLaren continues to reshape its design leadership. Meanwhile, Alistair Whelan has quietly departed Car Design News
Royal College of Art MA degree show highlights Car Design News attends the annual RCA degree show, where the graduating MA cohort showcase their final projects Lucy Abbott
GAC Motor appoints new design director Di Chen has been promoted from chief exterior designer to design director at GAC Motor part of the GAC Group Lucy Abbott
Change at Nissan: Albaisa to retire; Weaver succeeds Matthew Weaver will be Nissan's next design director when Alfonso Albaisa retires later this year Freddie Holmes
GM's Bob Boniface retires: “Be authentic and vulnerable" The Cadillac director of exterior design Bob Boniface has retired. Boniface reflects on his career, including his favourite designs, and advice for new designers Lucy Abbott
University of Wales Trinity Saint David Transportation design degree show CDN visits Swansea to attend the University of Wales Trinity Saint David Automotive and Transportation design show where the graduating students showcased their final projects Lucy Abbott
Derek Jenkins on the art of automotive surfacing Lucid design VP Derek Jenkins explains why great surfacing for his brand is about tension rather than creases, why shut lines are part of a car's design and the challenge of adapting an established (and hard-won) form language that appeals to the mass market James McLachlan
Rediscovering sketching in the age of AI As generative AI reshapes automotive design, sketching is becoming more important, not less. Designers are discovering that creativity, judgement and intent — not image-making— are emerging as their most valuable skills
Former Pininfarina design chief Felix Kilbertus shares five objects that inspire him Former design chief at Pininfarina by way of Rolls-Royce, Felix Kilbertus has founded his own design studio – The Ikari Institute. He shares five objects that inspire him Guy Bird
"To do a good job you've just got to want to do it" – an interview with Sir Paul Smith The fashion design legend’s automotive collaborations run decades deep from rare editions to concepts. Guy Bird caught up with Smith to discuss his Mini Cooper version launching as a regular production model worldwide in 2026 Guy Bird
Design round-up: Vanquish 25th anniversary edition; Princess Royal opens paint shop; people news Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Bentley, Aston Martin, Omoda and people news
“I want to keep sensuality in the design” – Renault’s Alexandre Malval on surfacing Car Design News caught up with the VP of Renault design Alexandre Malval at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 on surfacing and aerodynamics Lucy Abbott
How Audi designed the Nuvolari Following the unveiling of the Audi Nuvolari, exterior designer Stephan Fahr-Becker explains how the brand's new design philosophy is taking shape through disciplined surfacing, fanatical attention to detail and close collaboration from the board down James McLachlan
First Sight Q&A: Jozef Kabaň on the MG Cyber MG chose the roasting hot 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed to show not one but two new concepts in early July hinting at all-electric production cars that could sit at very different bookends of its future range James McLachlan
How Citroën turned aerodynamics into another layer of comfort Car Design News spoke to design project manager Kate Mouiron on the C5 Aircross about how close collaboration between designers and aerodynamic engineers has delivered greater efficiency, reduced cabin noise and a more relaxing driving experience James McLachlan
Andrew Smith: "Advanced designers need to be comfortable with ambiguity" As he retires after 35 years at General Motors, executive director of advanced design Andrew Smith reflects on his beginnings at Holden, the Cadillac Lyriq and Escala, questioning convention, AI, and the importance of pattern recognition James McLachlan
"Design something people genuinely want" – Pratap Bose, Mahindra CDO Mahindra's chief design officer Pratap Bose shares his thoughts on the all-new BE 6 and small cars James McLachlan
Interview: Renault's new advanced design chief The recently appointed head of advanced design says there are subtleties between advanced and production projects: one asks questions, one answers them Freddie Holmes
What’s the difference between advanced and production design? Seasoned designers give their take on the process and mindset behind advanced design Freddie Holmes
University of Staffordshire Automotive and Transport design BA show highlights Car Design News visits the University of Staffordshire to take a look at what the Automotive &Transport Design BA students have created Lucy Abbott
"Industry is at a turning point" says HMI expert One designer has warned that the current status of UX/UI needs to change. As it happens, that's exactly what new studio östra plans to do Freddie Holmes
Coventry University Automotive and Transport Design show 2026 highlights Coventry's latest BA showcase brought an intriguing mix of CMF projects, surrealist shapes and water-ready vehicles… Lucy Abbott
GM on People Awards win: "An exciting reminder" General Motors' clay modelling team reflect on their win at the 2025 People Awards Freddie Holmes
Tata on People Awards win: "A huge sense of pride and momentum" Tata's David Houston reflects on his team's win from the 2025 People Awards Freddie Holmes
Design driven: Refreshed Tonale keeps Alfa on brand CDN tries the refreshed Alfa Romeo Tonale and learns more about its unexpected links to the 33 Stradale and Giulia GTA Freddie Holmes
CCS Transportation Design BFA showcase highlights Jason White, assistant professor at CCS, profiles a selection of standout projects from the BFA degree Show, launched on May 15th at the A. Alfred Taubman Center for Design Education Jason White
June focus: Advanced design This month we dig into the world of advanced design to explore how these hyper-creative teams work. And given this is a future-looking discipline, we consider the long-term strategy for advanced design teams following the closure of major studios Freddie Holmes
Umeå UID 2026 degree show highlights Car Design News shares a selection of mobility projects on show today at the Umeå Institute of Design Freddie Holmes
GM (Re)opens its Advanced Design Studio with two Hummer concepts General Motors Advanced studio in Pasadena, which suffered a fire last year, is back in full operation, showing off a pair of mid-size Hummer concepts and a change of leadership. Car Design News was there Karl Smith
Italdesign: People Awards win "meaningful recognition" for studio engineering team Italdesign's chief technology officer Davide Casini reflects on his studio engineering team's win at the 2025 People Awards Freddie Holmes
Slate on People Awards win: "We were all so excited about it" Slate Auto's head of design reflects on what it meant to win two categories at the People Awards in 2025 Freddie Holmes
Stefan Sielaff on elevating Zeekr into a luxury brand through design Car Design News sits down with Geely’s design boss Stefan Sielaff to discuss the careful evolution of Zeekr and changing perceptions of luxury Timo Gilgen Lucy Abbott
Polestar's UX/UI lead joins robotics start-up Sid Odedra joins California start-up Figure AI to channel a personal interest in robotics Freddie Holmes
Ferrari's Angelo Nivola on designing with emotion At Car Design Dialogues Milan 2026, Ferrari's head of exterior and interior design Angelo Nivola explains the process behind "designing emotion" James McLachlan
Exclusive interview: José Navarro, head of design, Italdesign Italdesign’s new design boss and longtime employee Jose Navarro speaks to Car Design News about the future of Italdesign, working at speed and a personal interest in robotics Freddie Holmes
Book Review: SUPER SLOW by Stephane Janin The director of GAC’s Milan Studio compiles decades of thought and sketches into a new book that proposes a different modernity than we have known. Karl Smith
GAC design boss: “Nobody's really willing step forward with something radically different” GAC's global design chief spoke to CDN about standing out, countering homogeneity and balancing shock and awe tactics with products that genuinely resonate with customers at home and on the global stage Freddie Holmes
“It’s a cool job” – Volvo’s Jonathan Disley on designing trucks Car Design News catches up with Jonathan Disley design director at Volvo Trucks in Gothenburg on the challenges of designing trucks, the lessons for car designers and why dust influences CMF decisions Lucy Abbott
Bryan Nesbitt: between soul and system From a hippie childhood spent criss-crossing America in an AMC Gremlin to the top design job at General Motors, Bryan Nesbitt has never seen cars as just objects. As EVs, AI and global platforms reshape the industry, the designer shares his thoughts on the future James McLachlan
Yves Behar debuts ‘Peaks’ seating system Yves Behar, in collaboration with the radical Dutch interiors brand Mooi, debuted a new seating system, ‘Peaks,’ at Milan Design Week Karl Smith
Sharon Gauci on leadership, legacy and letting go at General Motors From pioneering colour, materials and finish to redefining brand identity across Buick and GMC, Sharon Gauci’s career has reshaped how design works at General Motors — placing culture, collaboration and detail at its core James McLachlan
CDD Milan 2026:Designing Connection As the Designing Connection panel during Car Design Dialogues Milan made clear, today’s design leaders are increasingly responsible not just for the product itself, but for the broader narrative that surrounds it, spanning brand, experience and cultural relevance Car Design News
Car Design Dialogues Beijing returns: a timely moment for a fast-moving industry Join us on the eve of the Beijing motor show's opening day for discussions with leaders from Audi, BAIC, Chery, Li Auto, Mercedes and Zeekr Car Design News
Gilles Vidal on the future of Stellantis’ European brands – “We need to deliver iconic products” Head of design for Stellantis’ European brands, Gilles Vidal, lays out the roadmap for the future of design at Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Vauxhall, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Maserati Lucy Abbott
Exclusive: Kemal Curic to head up McLaren Automotive design Former design boss at Lincoln and Ford Performance Kemal Curic has joined McLaren Automotive as chief design officer James McLachlan
Ludwin Cruz promoted to Jeep interior design chief North America Jeep has promoted Ludwin Cruz to chief of interior design for North America, leading the creative direction of interior experiences Lucy Abbott
“In the end, we’re human beings designing for human beings” – Todd Willing Ford Motor Company's head of design, Todd Willing, delves into the challenges the industry is facing, recent launches and AI tools Lucy Abbott
“A happy designer is a creative designer” – Simon Loasby Hyundai's head of global design reflects on the Ioniq line-up, global design and his father's influence on his career Car Design News
“The market is asking for it, but do we really need it?” – Lynk & Co’s head of brand experience on digital tools CDN sat down with Stefano Oliva to discuss how digital tools are key for an international brand and his complex views on AI Lucy Abbott
John Sahs joins Mitsubishi Following the closure of Nissan's latin America design studio, the designer has moved to Japan for a new role with Mitsubishi Freddie Holmes
Sharon Gauci to retire from GM The executive director of global design for Buick and GMC will leave the business as of 1 May 2026 Car Design News
Geely’s VP of global design: “China speed is an old story now” Stefan Sielaff speaks to CDN on brand development, sustainability and AI Lucy Abbott
"Design has never moved faster" – Shao Jingfeng Chief design officer at SAIC, Shao Jingfeng, reflects on strategy in Europe, the impact of EV technology on design and the influence of social media Car Design News
It’s (now) official: Gerry McGovern to leave JLR role at end of March Gerry McGovern has announced he will step down as chief creative officer – and as a member of the Jaguar Land Rover Board – at the end of this month (March 2026) to establish his own creative consultancy Guy Bird
Chris Lefteri joins Alcantara Materials specialist Chris Lefteri has formally joined Alcantara in a newly created role Freddie Holmes
"Design now informs every part of the brand experience" – Robin Page Design director at Bentley Motors Robin Page reflects on the EXP 15, bringing the UX team physically into the design space and the importance of lighting Car Design News
Navarro to lead Italdesign as García departs Long-time company veteran José Navarro takes over the creative helm at Italdesign following the departure of design chief Joaquin García Sanchis who joins Electrolux James McLachlan
Genesis’ John Krsteski: Why digital tools make it the best time to be a car designer According to Genesis’ John Krsteski, digital tools are empowering designers, simplifying complex processes, and allowing unprecedented creative freedom, making now an exciting era for automotive design innovation James McLachlan
Slate Auto talks "sustainable by design" Tisha Johnson, Slate Auto's thoughtful and passionate designer, speaks to Car Design News about awards, exterior design, merchandise and students Freddie Holmes
Celebrating International Women's Day Car Design News recognises International Women's Day 2026 Lucy Abbott
"We’re very conscious that the brands are king” – Ralph Gilles Stellantis' chief design officer Ralph Gilles reflects on how to make an affordable product, AI and the magic of a non-hierarchical work culture Car Design News
Raphael Bretecher on design mavericks and concepts Bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and a glimpse of the future: Hyundai’s head of interiors in Europe Raphael Bretecher discusses maverick designers and concept cars James McLachlan
"It's better to have a good idea than a good drawing" says Pagani designer Pagani's advanced design lead Alberto Piccolo sat down with Car Design News to chat about the Huayra R hypercar, working with carbonfibre and why students should prioritise great ideas over perfect drawings Freddie Holmes
Pierre Leclercq: “We learn a lot as designers by making sure our cars are affordable” Citroën design director on French identity in design, mono materials and the importance of working on brand strength Car Design News
Designing the future from first principles: von Holzhausen on the Tesla Cybercab Franz von Holzhausen and Eric Earley explain how Tesla’s Cybercab rethinks autonomy, luxury and manufacturing from the ground up — pairing hyper-efficiency with emotional design to democratise premium mobility at scale James McLachlan
Nader Faghihzadeh: "In our vision, the car stops being a machine and becomes a companion" Avatr chief design officer Nader Faghihzadeh on redefining the meaning of luxury Car Design News
A rare audience with Giorgetto Giugiaro Car Design News’ caught up with the 87-year-old Italian maestro on a visit to the UK to discuss one of his greatest hits – the Lotus Esprit – plus the promise and pitfalls of AI, and what he really thinks of modern UX Guy Bird
Andreas Mindt named as head of Volkswagen Group design Volkswagen has announced that Andreas Mindt will assume the role of head of VW Group design as of 1 March 2026 Lucy Abbott
Inside Ford’s new global headquarters: Jennifer Kolstad on designing culture, identity and change In this exclusive building tour for Car Design News, global design and brand director at Ford Jennifer Kolstad guides readers inside the carmaker's new campus in Dearborn, revealing how architecture is reshaping culture, brand identity and organisational change James McLachlan
Mitja Borkert: "Design isn't about nationality. It's about empathy, understanding and vision" Lamborghini design director Mitja Borkert on utilising iconic design DNA, collaboration between design and engineering and electrification Car Design News
Jozef Kaban: "We need to be the light for the whole system, not just design" SAIC design VP and self-described life optimist Jozef Kaban explains why strong leadership still matters in a flatter creative culture, failure and design heroes James McLachlan
Designing autonomous luxury at Lucid Lucid Motors' design supremo Derek Jenkins explains how autonomous driving reshapes vehicle design, user experience and luxury expectations, outlining the balance between tech innovation and human-centred creativity in future mobility James McLachlan
Car Design News People Awards 2026 open for entries The entries for the 2026 People Awards are now open Car Design News
Detroit design students showcase contrasting visions for mobility’s future At the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, the next generation of car designers presented projects ranging from off-road rescue vehicles to visionary urban transport systems, revealing how industry briefs and academic imagination combine to shape fresh design thinking James McLachlan
“We have to be bold again” – Nissan Design Europe boss Arroba speaks out Car Design News’ candid Q&A with Nissan’s London-based design VP Giovanny Arroba discusses amplifying the brand in response to new Chinese rivals and harnessing design talent alongside AI Guy Bird
Massimo Frascella: "Reducing everything to the essential means focusing on what truly matters" Audi chief creative officer Massimo Frascella on the power of design as a catalyst for transformation, design as more than aesthetics and his vision for interiors Car Design News
Who’s where: Adil Benwadih joins Leapmotor The designer will head up advanced design at the Chinese brand in Munich Freddie Holmes
Exclusive: BAIC's new Turin studio takes shape with Ivo Groen at the helm Chinese automaker BAIC is opening a new design studio in Turin, appointing experienced European designer Ivo Groen to lead the facility James McLachlan
Exclusive: Raul Pires replaces Max Wolff as head of Ford design in China and Asia; Wolff joins GM China Pires drafted in to lead Ford's China studio as Wolff crosses over to head up General Motors Shanghai operation James McLachlan
“Modern technology allows coach building to continue” Jonathan Wells, chief design officer at British sportscar company Morgan, explains what it’s like working with wood and metal, and how the team has embraced modern processes Freddie Holmes
Martin Uhlarik: "We're as ambitious as anybody" Tata Motors VP of design Martin Uhlarik on creating a timeless appeal and UX/UI as the main pillar Car Design News
“There’s more passion here than at a normal car show” Car Design News chats heritage, concept cars and colour with Citroen design boss Pierre Leclercq from the show floor in Paris Freddie Holmes
Porsche appoints Tobias Sühlmann as new head of design Tobias Sühlmann has been named Porsche’s new design boss, succeeding Michael Mauer Lucy Abbott
Laurens Van Den Acker: "The far future is easier to predict than what’s going to happen next year" Chief design officer at Renault Group Laurens Van Den Acker on defining a brand, the warmth of French cars and reinventing iconic vehicles Car Design News
“Constraints enable creativity” – Oilstainlab CEO on design for manufacturing The creator of a radical retro-inspired hypercar tells CDN how embedding manufacturing constraints early lets their small team turn radical designs into buildable cars Lucy Abbott
Designing on the edge: how Ford’s Dark Horse SC took shape Lead designer and engineer on the Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC reveals how tight timelines, hard points and constant negotiation matched the project's bold design intent with engineering reality James McLachlan
Early design freeze brings purchasing power A close relationship between design and manufacturing gives OEM purchasing teams more time to secure the right price ahead of production. Speaking from the sidelines of the Brussels motor show, Zeekr's interior chief Sergio Loureiro Da Silva points to the intersection between how a car looks and how much it costs to make Freddie Holmes
EyesOn Design 2026 honours Cadillac, Ferrari and Bentley for automotive design excellence EyesOn Design 2026 crowned Cadillac, Ferrari and Bentley as design leaders in Detroit, recognising standout production and concept vehicles alongside a lifetime achievement award for outgoing Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener James McLachlan
Designer vox pops at the Belgian motor show and their plans for 2026 revealed The Car Design News team spoke to a bunch of key designers at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show about the event's new credibility, what’s at the top of their in-tray for the year ahead (and much more off the record). Here’s what we can publish so far… Guy Bird
Changan’s foray into Europe ‘requires both humility and confidence’ CDN sits down with Jung Hyun Lee, exterior design director at the Changan European Design Centre Michael Nash
Genesis' John Krsteski: "Creativity doesn't happen inside a box" Senior chief designer at Genesis, John Krsteski, on the new LA studio, building a team and closing the gap between concept and production vehicles Car Design News
Kia's Jeongbin Moon: "Kia Design will continue to create designs that are emotional and warm." Head of Kia Next Design Group Jeongbin Moon on how to authentically communicate the 'Opposites United' philosophy and more.... Car Design News
Exclusive Q&A - Ingenlath on his second Volvo term: “I bring a hell of a lot of experience in designing cars” Car Design News exclusively speaks to Thomas Ingenlath ahead of his return as design boss at Volvo Guy Bird
Marília Biill promoted to VP of CMF design at Kia Kia signals importance of CMF by creating a new role for Marília Biill Lucy Abbott
Don't end up with a "Potato" Design supremo at Lamborghini Mitja Borkert talks to Car Design News' James McLachlan about Goodwood FoS, aerodynamics and winning arguments with engineers James McLachlan
Ingenlath returns as Volvo design boss Volvo has reappointed Thomas Ingenlath as head of design, effective from February 1st 2026 Guy Bird
Interview: Richard Shaw, Opel interiors chief Car Design News speaks to Opel design stalwart and current interiors chief Richard Shaw James McLachlan
"As long as we're physical, there'll be physical beauty." VP Global Design at General Motors Bryan Nesbitt on the state of the industry and the importance of GM's history Car Design News
Top people moves in car design 2025 This month Car Design News turns the spotlight on the most significant people moves shaping the global car design industry in 2025 Lucy Abbott
Marc Deschamps wins Lifetime Achievement Award for car design From the sidelines of a very loud awards show in London, Eduardo Robledo accepts the Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of his friend Marc Deschamps, a french designer that went largely under the radar for many in the car design industry. Robledo shares a heartfelt message on behalf of Deschamps, and gives some insight into the man himself. Car Design News
“I am so proud of them all” – Richard Pietruska, ArtCenter College of Design Veteran educator Richard Pietruska reflects on five decades shaping automotive design talent through his sketching classes. Car Design News spoke to Pietruska about his former students, many of whom are industry legends James McLachlan
Lotus stalwart Russell Carr on the brand's design evolution In recent years, Lotus’ product range has shifted from its sports car-only focus but the company’s head of design, Russell Carr, explains the realities of preserving heritage in the modern age Trinity Francis
Gorden Wagener to leave Mercedes Mercedes-Benz has officially announced the departure of chief design officer Gorden Wagener Car Design News
"I love collaborating beyond automotive" The Citroen ELO concept debuted in Paris last week, and style director Pierre Leclercq shared some background on this quirky take on the MPV Freddie Holmes
CDN People Awards 2025 winners announced Discover the winners at the fourth CDN People Awards alongside photographs from the night Car Design News
Where vision meets users: The Nio ET9 Horizon Edition Luxury design isn’t just about materials or technology, but about understanding your users. Car Design News sat down with Kris Tomasson, Nio’s SVP of design, to find out how its ET9 Horizon Edition embodies this approach Toby Clarke
Gerry canned? McGovern leaves JLR In a surprise move, Gerry McGovern, the influential chief creative officer credited with defining the modern identity of Jaguar Land Rover, leaves the company. Or does he? James McLachlan
GAC to shutter Los Angeles Advanced Design studio GAC is closing its Los Angeles Advanced Design Studio, bringing an end to one of the Chinese carmaker’s most internationally visible creative hubs James McLachlan
Designing the Paris-Dakar Bull Car Design News speaks to Chris Milburn, designer of the legendary Paris-Dakar rally truck, the DAF Bull James McLachlan
Inside Ford’s new World Headquarters with six design studios The 2.1 million square-foot HQ was designed in collaboration with Snøhetta Lucy Abbott
Sketch battle returns for CDN People Awards 2025 Back for its fourth year, the People Awards will once again see student designers duke it out as part of the live Hyundai sketch battle Car Design News
My life in five objects: Martin Uhlarik Tata’s global design boss reveals his love of high modernism with this selection of influential objects drawn from his life in design Car Design News
"Design is not the place to save money" XPeng’s design leaders explain how a diverse, digitally driven studio, proprietary AI and ties to Chinese consumers are reshaping vehicle development at speed James McLachlan
Watch: Joaquin Garcia, Italdesign Italdesign's Joaquin Garcia speaks to Car Design News about the US studio, AI and new brand identity James McLachlan
What is American luxury? At Car Design Dialogues Detroit, design leaders from Rivian, Lucid, Cadillac, Chrysler and Lincoln debate the meaning of American luxury, exploring heritage, sustainability, materials, design language and technology in shaping premium experiences for a changing market James McLachlan
"A global brand embraces every culture" In an increasingly global design ecosystem, how are international creative leaders shaping the future of US automotive design? Design leaders addressed this topic and more at CDD Detroit 2025 Car Design News
Alexandre Malval appointed design vice president at Renault The new design vice president will report to chief design officer Laurens van den Acker Lucy Abbott
Ford's experience-design lead: "Human-centric design is a team sport" Chiara Onida, experience-design lead in the Human Centric Design team at Ford delves into how customer insight impacts design and changing expectations Lucy Abbott
American Muscle: "The best is yet to come" Read on for key highlights from the final session of Car Design Dialogues Detroit, which investigated the state of play for American Muscle and the threat — or opportunity — posed by BEVs Freddie Holmes
CCS MA students "push conceptual boundaries" at latest show Masters students on the Transportation Design course at the College for Creative Studies present varied visions for future mobility Freddie Holmes
"Detroit is the spiritual heart of American car design" Get to know some of the speakers and topics at Car Design Dialogues Detroit 2025 Freddie Holmes
Car Design News October Focus: Design talent This month Car Design News will be exploring the importance and evolution of design talent Lucy Abbott
Massimo Frascella on the role of the automotive designer As part of Car Design News' design talent focus, CDN speaks to Audi design boss Massimo Frascella on the evolving role of the designer James McLachlan
Interview: Alessandro Dambrosio, Mitsubishi Motors Car Design News speaks to Mitsubishi’s executive design director about the brand’s evolving design language and his experience as a designer across continents Freddie Holmes
"It’s time to take a long, hard look in the mirror" The IAA was a wake‑up call for European carmakers. Against a backdrop of global disruption, automotive design must lead the way — delivering bold, distinctive, and purposeful cars that reconnect brands with their DNA Rob Dolton
Behind the scenes: CDN People Awards global live judging Our jury of top designers assembled at Tata Motors' Coventry design studio to judge entries for the 2025 People Awards Car Design News
Exclusive: Felix Kilbertus leaves Pininfarina Felix Kilbertus is leaving Pininfarina after two years as chief creative officer. Kilbertus, who previously led exterior design at Rolls-Royce, departs following a period of diversification and global expansion for the storied Italian design house James McLachlan
VW design on books, cars and special sauce Many brands had new cars to show at IAA, but to our knowledge, it was only Volkswagen that had a new book to launch. CDN sat down with key team members to learn more Freddie Holmes
"Back to basics": Mercedes balances form and function with new EQC Car Design News sits down with Mercedes' director of exterior design Robert Lesnik to chat lighting, the new electric GLC and how students can stand out Freddie Holmes
Dominic Najafi takes top Cadillac design job The ex-Bentley and JLR designer speaks to Car Design News about trading Leamington Spa for Michigan, and why the Cadillac brand has "enormous potential" Freddie Holmes
Hyundai Europe CEO: "Design is not an isolated function" Xavier Martinet and Simon Loasby join Car Design News for a deep dive on design strategy and the all-new Concept 3 Freddie Holmes
"Colour is not just about the shade — it’s how you feel when you see it" Car Design News spoke to Bentley paint design expert Steve Williams and CMF boss Andrea Jensen James McLachlan
Sponsored Look good, feel good, do good: Elmo talks innovation in sustainable leather Balance is a key theme for material supplier Elmo as it marries cutting-edge solutions with traditional craftsmanship Car Design News
CDN launches free subscription for design schools The next generation of design talent can now access Car Design News' full spread of news, analysis and events free of charge Car Design News
Volkswagen names new interior chief Volkswagen has named a long-time staffer as the new head of interior design Freddie Holmes
Delayed gratification: Bentley's new studio Bentley's design team has been waiting a long time for a new studio. Turns out, it was worth it James McLachlan
ArtCenter launches the Ian Cameron Scholarship ArtCenter College of Design has announced a new scholarship in honour of the late BMW and Rolls-Royce designer, Ian Cameron Freddie Holmes
Pforzheim summer show 2025: Kia and Geely Interior design and nostalgia were the dominant themes of this summer's degree show. In this feature, we focus on the Geely and Kia projects Freddie Holmes
In memoriam: Ercole Spada The prolific Italian designer has died aged 88 after an immense half century in the business Car Design News
“Every new car needs to be a little revolution” – inside Renault’s design mindset Car Design News caught up with Renault’s Gilles Vidal and Sandeep Bhambra at the Goodwood Festival of Speed to talk brand identity, affordable design and why a bit of disruption is essential Lucy Abbott
Krugger given reins to Stellantis North America design Scott Krugger, formerly of Dodge and SRT design leadership, has been given an expanded North America role Freddie Holmes
Bentley’s studio design manager on pride in the workplace Tom Dawes, studio design manager at Bentley, speaks to CDN about his journey into car design and founding BeProud Stephen Dobie
Gilles Vidal takes over Stellantis’ European Brands Gilles Vidal returns to forming stomping ground to lead creative strategy across Stellantis European marques James McLachlan
Jozef Kabaň on MG’s expanding design language MG’s global design chief Jozef Kabaň reflects on his move to China, the creative philosophy behind the Cyber X concept, and how the brand is stretching its design identity to connect with new audiences James McLachlan
Exclusive: Volvo’s Offer resigns after Ingenlath resurfaces Jeremy Offer has resigned from his role as global head of design at Volvo with Nick Gronenthal stepping up to run the design studio in the interim. Meanwhile, former Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath is back in the fold with a new design advisory role at Geely Guy Bird
Nicholas David on Karma’s vision for the Kaveya At Goodwood 2025, Karma Automotive’s Design VP, Nicholas David, revealed how the forthcoming Kaveya aims to rewrite the rulebook for electric performance vehicles — from proportion-driven aesthetics to theatrical lighting and hidden mechanism James McLachlan
Design can influence aero in new ways, says Alpine design boss Antony Villain reflects on his time with the brand so far and explains how motorsport and design have rethought how aero is executed Freddie Holmes
Bentley redesigns logo for the fifth time in the brand’s history Bentley interior designer Young Kwang Nam led the creative update of the brand’s logo unveiled in tandem with the new EXP 15 concept car. Car Design News caught up with him at the new studio James McLachlan
Ford teams up with Chinese design academy for trio of Mustangs Auto Shanghai 2025 was a platform for more than new EVs; this year students from around the world presented new visions of the iconic Mustang Freddie Holmes
“My team is very free to explore” – Stephanie Petit, CMF head at Alpine Car Design News speaks to Stephanie Petit about sustainable materials, 3D-printed finishes, and French craftsmanship – from leather traceability to illuminated triangles James McLachlan
The women behind Lynk & Co’s design: “We’ve seen a big shift in the automotive industry” Car Design News sat down with a selection of female automotive designers at Lynk & Co headquarters in Gothenburg for an open and honest conversation about gender inclusion within the industry Lucy Abbott
“The better the proportions, the less styling you need” – Gary Telaak, Audi Audi senior designer Gary Telaak has been with the storied brand for 28 years. Here he looks back at the launch of Audi TT, shares his thoughts on what made that car so special and talks about the challenges designers face in working with and integrating new technology James McLachlan
Interview: Lynk & Co design president Stefan Rosen on creating the ‘anti-Volvo’ In light of the launch of Lynk & Co’s 08, Car Design News spoke to design president Stefan Rosen on how the brand’s design language has evolved Lucy Abbott
Changan’s Klaus Zyciora: “We can bring products to Europe that people admire and love” As Changan continues its expansion in Europe, Car Design News visited Chongqing to understand how the brand plans to combine local market knowledge with global design expertise to connect with European consumers
Watch: Autodesk on solving pain points in design At the 2025 Automotive Innovation Forum in Germany, designers from Ford, Tata, Firefly and Incari share how digital tools are reshaping their daily workflows in this exclusive video from Car Design News Freddie Holmes
“I don’t have a computer and I can’t do CAD; I have a drawing board everywhere I go” Gordon Murray, the ”engineer with an artistic bent”, talks to Car Design News ahead of Goodwood Festival of Speed about his path to design, the handful of modern cars he likes and his unashamedly analogue mindset Stephen Dobie
Chery’s Michael Duerr: “We can claim to be Europe’s most productive studio” At a bespoke event down in Southampton, Car Design News grabbed some time with senior manager of Interior Design at Chery International, Michael Duerr, to speak about building a brand from scratch, AI and China speed James McLachlan
Watch: Aurelien Doisy speaks to Car Design News Aurelien Doisy is a key figure in Tata Motors’ design evolution. From humble beginnings in a rented shed to global recognition, this conversation explores themes of cultural identity, design leadership, and redefining modern automotive aesthetics through a uniquely Indian lens James McLachlan
