Fuss-free design on way

By James Foxall

26th June 2009

The world recession is set to change car design radically, according to manufacturers.

Although vehicle stylists work about three years ahead, firms are predicting that consumers will have a more conservative outlook when economies begin growing again – and they want models to reflect this.

Ford’s exterior design director, Stefan Lamm, told us: “Simplicity will play a more important role in future design. It needs to be done so that cars don’t look boring – people won’t want fussy shapes.
“The new C-MAX, for example, will come at the right time. People are going to want a car that fulfils a purpose, rather than buying it because they like its image.”

Design isn’t the only element the recession will hit. Equipment will be affected, too. Erik Soule from Linear Technology, which makes electronic systems, said: “Programmes in the luxury area are being cut back. High-end navigation and infotainment projects are being shelved.”

And Juergen Weyer from Freescale, which builds micro processors, added: “We’re seeing the postponement of new car launches, so new technology
products will be postponed, too.”

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