The Los Angeles Auto Show has announced the theme for its 11th annual Design Challenge, which will prompt participants to explore the idea: “Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?”
One of the most recognized auto design competitions in the world, LA Auto Show Design Challenge has confirmed participation from eight world-renowned design studios, each submitting a concept to showcase a connected vehicle or interface system designed with human emotion in mind. Last year’s competition saw the SAIC Mobiliant concept emerge as the winner.
Entrants will explore interiors that will emotionally, comfortably and safely connect the driver and/or passengers to the car by 2029.
The 2014 Design Challenge participants include BMW Group DesignworksUSA, Honda USA, Honda Japan, McLaren Automotive, Nissan Peterbilt Motors, Qoros Auto and SAIC Motor MG.
“Los Angeles is one of the world’s most dynamic cities constantly keeping its eye on the future of technological advancements that largely affect our daily lives,” said Lisa Kaz, President of the LA Auto Show.
“This makes this year’s theme of the human reliance on machines especially fitting, as it continues to connect to our senses, feelings and patterns with our cars.”
Overall, the Design Challenge explores how future technology will further transform human-to-machine interfaces to connect with consumer senses, predict their next moves and create a personal relationship with people and their vehicles.
Entries will be judged on various factors including comfort, attention to human sense and emotional connection, ecological sensitivity, creativity of concept, control and function of concept and reflection of the brand.
This year’s entrants will be critiqued by an esteemed panel of judges, including Tom Matano, Executive Director of the School of Industrial Design at Academy of Art University; Stewart Reed, Chair of Transportation Design at the Art Center College of Design; and Alexander Klatt, Associate Professor, Chair of MFA Transportation Design at the College for Creative Studies.
Details on each concept will be announced and on display at Pasadena’s Art Center College of Design Car Classic 2014 held on October 26. The final competition concepts will be prominently displayed in the Design Gallery of the LA Auto Show along with other talented and imaginative global auto studios throughout show’s press days as well as through the run of the public show.
The winning design studio will be selected during the Design LA Open House on Thursday, Nov. 20, and will be emceed by Design LA Conference Directors, Chuck Pelly and Joan Gregor.
