34 stories tagged design on EV Digest.
Two renowned Italian design figures, Fabrizio Giugiaro and Lapo Elkann, have unveiled striking new concepts based on the all-electric Fiat Topolino. Their 'Top.L' and 'Top.J' interpretations aim to elevate the budget-friendly city EV with a strong focus on emotional design. This collaboration showcases how even accessible electric vehicles can inspire high-level automotive artistry.
Polestar has revealed its 'Formula 2030' concept car, offering a strong indication of the future design language for its upcoming EV models. This concept directly previews the styling elements expected in the next-generation Polestar 2, anticipated by 2027, and the Polestar 7 compact SUV, slated for 2028. The reveal is central to the Swedish automaker's broader strategy to showcase its design direction and path to profitability for investors.
Polestar has unveiled a glimpse of its future design direction through the 'Formula 2030' concept car, signaling a new aesthetic that will influence upcoming models like the next-generation Polestar 2. This move comes as the brand navigates its market presence, with its vehicles currently facing restrictions in the U.S.
Polestar has unveiled its 'Formula 2030' design study, offering a glimpse into the evolving aesthetic and potential features for its upcoming electric vehicles, specifically hinting at the next-generation Polestar 2 and the anticipated Polestar 7. This futuristic concept refines the brand's signature design language, showcasing innovative elements expected to influence its future BEV lineup.
Polestar has revealed its "Formula 2030" concept, offering a glimpse into the brand's evolving design philosophy. This new aesthetic, characterized by updated "Dual Blade" headlights and sleek surfaces, is set to shape upcoming vehicles like the next Polestar 2 and the forthcoming Polestar 7 SUV.
A new body style for the Polestar 4, dubbed an 'electric station wagon' due to the reintroduction of a rear window, has emerged from the brand's recent patent filings. While this intriguing design has garnered attention, its availability in the crucial North American market remains unconfirmed by Polestar.
The Polestar 4 is shaking up its design, addressing a notable omission by reintroducing a rear window, which was absent in its initial reveal. This update not only enhances visibility but also brings a more traditional SUV-coupe aesthetic, alongside an expanded trunk capacity and a new Camping mode for improved practicality and overnight stays.
China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) is reportedly moving to regulate and standardize vehicle designs, aiming to reduce the influx of unusually styled electric vehicles competing in its crowded domestic market. This effort seeks to streamline the design landscape as manufacturers increasingly push boundaries to stand out amidst fierce competition and rapid technological advancements.
As electric vehicles push new performance boundaries, one automotive editor suggests manufacturers should bring back technical badging to highlight innovative EV features. Following the tradition of past ICE models that proudly displayed engine specs, this approach could help differentiate advanced EVs like those with 800V architecture or sophisticated hybrid drivetrains.
BYD is leveraging its new Milan-based design studio to tailor its premium Denza brand for European consumers, aiming to directly challenge established luxury automakers like Audi and BMW. This strategic move seeks to align Denza models with local tastes and preferences, critical for penetrating a competitive market where brand loyalty is strong.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a significant refresh for its C-Class sedan, giving the gasoline-powered model an exterior design that closely mirrors the brand's EQ electric vehicle lineup. This update aims to visually integrate the C-Class into Mercedes' evolving aesthetic, blurring the lines between its traditional combustion and battery-electric offerings.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a refreshed C-Class, emphasizing updates to its internal combustion engine (ICE) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains to meet new Euro 7 emissions standards. While the redesign primarily targets gasoline and diesel models, it hints at a future where ICE and electric C-Class variants share more visual cues, a strategy also being adopted by BMW for its 3 Series and i3.
Cadillac has unveiled the V-One concept, showcasing a striking vision that blends the brand's luxury aesthetic with its racing heritage. While not a production vehicle, this design study is expected to heavily influence Cadillac's upcoming high-performance electric vehicles, hinting at future styling and aerodynamic innovations.
Ferrari has showcased a new custom one-off model, the CZ26, built on the SF90 Stradale's plug-in hybrid platform. While retaining the SF90's powerful twin-turbo V8 powertrain, the CZ26's distinctive design is generating buzz as a potential preview of Ferrari's upcoming all-electric vehicle aesthetics. This exclusive creation features a 7.9 kWh battery, offering approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) of electric range.
Ferrari has introduced the CZ26, a one-off special based on its SF90 plug-in hybrid, showcasing a radical new design language that draws inspiration from 1970s industrial aesthetics. Developed with a US-based client, this bespoke creation is anticipated to influence the styling direction for Ferrari's next generation of electrified supercars. It features a minimalist, technologically forward look with enhanced aerodynamics, signaling potential design shifts for future models.
A new fan-generated concept offers a glimpse at potential styling enhancements for the Tesla Model 3, drawing inspiration from the recently refreshed 'Juniper' Model Y. This speculative design highlights how Tesla's popular sedan might evolve with updated aesthetics, fueling anticipation for future iterations.
After his high-profile departure from JLR, former chief creative officer Gerry McGovern has confirmed his intent to re-enter the automotive design world. McGovern, known for shaping iconic Land Rover models and influencing Jaguar's EV concept, emphasized his passion for creating new vehicles. While his next move remains unannounced, his return could impact future EV aesthetics across the industry.
Nissan has named Matthew Weaver as its new Senior Vice President for Global Design. Known for his distinctive work on the Juke and Qashqai, Weaver's promotion signals a shift towards more adventurous styling for Nissan's upcoming electric vehicle lineup and other future models, aiming to reinvigorate the brand's aesthetic.
The MG Cyberster, an all-electric roadster, is poised to revive the brand's storied open-top sports car legacy. Its design aesthetic aims to blend modern EV technology with the classic proportions and emotional appeal that have defined iconic two-seaters for decades.
Mercedes-Benz acknowledges it went too far in replacing physical buttons with touchscreen controls in its vehicles. While large digital displays remain popular, the automaker plans to bring back more tactile switches for essential functions in future models, responding to customer feedback.
BMW outlined its strategy to offer a diverse range of powertrains across its vehicle lineup, including battery-electric options, to cater to varying global market demands. This approach is coupled with a renewed focus on a distinctive design language, moving away from a singular EV-only platform strategy.
Bentley's first all-electric vehicle, code-named 'Torcal,' will incorporate a prominent curved screen for its infotainment system while retaining essential physical controls. This design aims to blend cutting-edge digital technology with the brand's commitment to tactile quality and ease of use.
Many modern vehicles, including some with electrified powertrains, now feature decorative elements designed to resemble exhaust tips. These cosmetic additions often conceal the actual exhaust outlet or exist solely for aesthetic purposes on electric models. This trend is driven by design preferences and the evolving nature of vehicle propulsion.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated it will develop new rules for vehicle door latch and lock systems. This move stems from a petition highlighting safety concerns with electronic door releases, particularly in emergency situations. The potential new standards could impact Tesla and other automakers using non-mechanical door handles across their vehicle lineups.
Avery Dennison Performance Tapes has published a new guide to help engineers and decision-makers navigate the complexities of EV battery design and manufacturing. The "EV battery electrical insulation design guide" focuses on the use of dielectric tapes, including their Volt Tough portfolio, as a critical solution for electrical insulation within battery systems.
Elon Musk has hinted at making the design specifications for the Tesla Model S and Model X open source, drawing parallels to a similar, albeit limited, release for the original Roadster. This announcement revives skepticism, as the previous 'open-source' effort for the Roadster primarily involved a few technical documents and design files without a clear open-source license.
The latest review looks at the differences between a vehicle's appearance and its actual performance. With EVs being particularly quick, the industry is seeing a growing split between sporty aesthetics and straight-line speed. This leads to some vehicles setting an expectation through design that isn't always met by their powertrain.
MG has revealed its latest electric vehicle concept, dubbed "GO!", showcasing a futuristic design that could influence the brand's upcoming production models. While primarily a design study, the concept offers a glimpse into MG's evolving aesthetic for its electric lineup, blending bold styling with advanced features.
The BMW iX, initially met with derision for its distinctive "kidney grille" and unconventional styling, has developed a surprising fan base. Despite not fitting the traditional "Ultimate Driving Machine" mold, this electric SUV offers a luxurious, technology-rich interior and enjoyable electric performance, proving that unconventional design can sometimes lead to unexpected affection.
In a survey of the best-looking models from various automakers, the Audi TT and BMW iX earned recognition for their distinctive designs. While the TT was celebrated for its enduring appeal and clean aesthetic, the iX stood out as a leader in BMW's modern EV design language, showcasing how electric vehicles are pushing aesthetic boundaries.
The Audi TT has been lauded as the most aesthetically pleasing model from the German manufacturer, a choice made by Autocar as part of a broader review of classic and contemporary automotive designs. This selection comes at a time when EV design is increasingly pushing the boundaries of automotive aesthetics, competing with and often surpassing the visual appeal of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Despite its controversial styling, including a large grille and unusual body panels, the all-electric BMW iX has earned a soft spot among UK automotive journalists. They praise its plush interior, advanced technology, and surprisingly enjoyable driving dynamics.
British luxury automaker Jaguar is fully committing to an electric-only lineup, set to unveil its new flagship BEV model this fall with deliveries starting next year. This strategic pivot involves a radical departure from its traditional elegant curves towards a more assertive, blunt aesthetic, a move that has garnered both attention and criticism from industry observers.
The late designer Luigi Colani, known for his organic, aerodynamic forms, envisioned a future of automobiles including several electric and hybrid concepts decades ago. His forward-thinking designs, showcased at events like Automorrow '89, illustrate an early exploration into alternative powertrains and sustainable mobility. Colani's work highlights how certain EV concepts have been around for longer than many realize.
