13-15 July 2021
Exploring the Asian design renaissance
Virtual Attendees
Inspiring speakers
Interactive sessions
There was a time when Chinese car design was seen as an echo of established European style. No longer. Today, a new wave of Chinese brands are asserting homegrown design credentials with a new found confidence that mirrors the country’s presence on the world stage. Equally, how do global brands design to appeal for a distinct new market with its own unique mobility challenges and aesthetic taste. But China’s design resurgence tells only part of the story. South Korean OEMs have moved deftly from the value end of the market to become genuine contenders in the premium segment, owing to a burst of creativity and innovation. Meanwhile, Japan is showing signs that the creative spirit that gave the world the first serious hybrid and electric cars is alive and well.
To explore all this and more, Car Design Dialogues returns for another 3-day compelling programme on 13-15 July of studio tours, discussions, interviews, and design reviews from China, India, South Korea, and Japan. Plus, we recognise the best in student design with the prestigious China Awards.
Key Themes Discussed by Industry Leaders
Collaboration
Lone creator or collective vision. Few would argue that design is a solo pursuit, rather the successful realisation of a project relies on a variety of inputs from across different departments. Does collaboration inevitably lead to compromise and how best to avoid design by committee?
Technology
From parametric design software to touchscreens and EV platforms, technology has unlocked myriad possibilities both for exterior and interior design. It has thrown up challenges too, with some arguing that an abundance of tech is compromising aesthetics and the user experience. How technology is too much? And how long will there be a place for clay modelling and sketching?
Creativity
Creativity is the lifeblood of the designer. To be creative requires time and space with the best ideas often stemming from a simple sketch or inspired by a creative discipline unrelated to automotive design. Unlocking creativity through shared knowledge and exposure to new ideas can generate distinct identities for your brand.
Sustainability
Today, the expectation is that cars should be designed with sustainability placed front and centre. Electrification plays a large part in this shift, with many OEMs moving towards all-EV line-ups. So too do materials. Designers have an ongoing opportunity to play a key role in realising a brighter and more sustainable future.
Dialogue Sessions
Design Reviews
Hear from the teams behind the latest car launches as we take you on an immersive journey inside the studios.
Panel Discussions
The industry offers a variety of perspectives on the big questions it currently faces.
Fireside Chats
Informed and informal one-to-one conversations with the leading lights in car design.
Latest Speakers Confirmed
Anne Asensio
Vice President Design Experience
Dassault Systèmes
Shiro Nakamura
CEO
Shiro Nakamura Design Associates
Jingfeng Shao
Vice President and Global Design Director
SAIC Motor
Guy Burgoyne
Vice President, Geely Design china
Geely Design
Fan Zhang
Vice President, Head of Design
GAC
Simon Loasby
Vice President, Hyundai Styling Group
Hyundai Motor Group
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