The Greater Los Angeles Auto Show held in Detroit in January 2006 saw a dazzling display of the 2007 CX-7 SUV Mazda model, which uniquely combined the design of a sports car with the amenities of an SUV. The new model dawned new standards in automotive design.
While Mazda chose to chase new frontiers in design, Chrysler adopted retro design for crafting its 2004 model bringing back the older delight. It designed the vehicle with a blunt and heavy front, marking a significant departure from the old models, yet managing to bring back reflections of the celebrated old favourites. In addition, short front and rear hangs complemented the rear-wheel-drive guts.
Brand differentiation is assuming paramount importance on account of the maze of numerous models being produced by the auto industry. Therefore, over the years, apart from focusing on exteriors, other aspects like, interior, safety features, electronics and fuel efficiency are becoming integral to the design of automobiles.
Sleeker exteriors have replaced the rectangular exteriors of yesteryears. The cars have angular forms with a focus on sidelines. Colour choice has also come to the rescue of designers to help them differentiate the products. For instance, the Renault Vel Satis has a unique chocolate brown body while the Ferrari offers a range of warn silver colours.
Different shapes of the headlight and the grill are also used to create brand differentiation. The Hyundai Portico has used the strategy effectively by its narrow, askew headlights and a curved grill. The concept is found used in the Alfa GT's front design with its chrome-plated grill.
Discreet interiors are preferred with leather and wood trimmings, enriched with upholstery reflecting a high quality workmanship. The Infiniti Coupe has focused on the trend by using Washi aluminium rice paper trim.
Taking the comfort to the next higher plane, models like t he 2007 Ford Expedition have ensured better communication between passengers from first to third row by using improved materials in the carpet and other features. The SUV provides more insulation behind the dashboard and door panels, thick glass and a steady roof panel, thus preventing itself from blocking the sounds.
Another arena of contemporary design is that of automotive electronics. Today, electronics account for 40% of the cost of the automobile. The original mechanical or hydraulic systems, which used to control braking, steering etc. have given way to Electronic Control system (ECS) to perform these functions.
The 2007 Sentra's car key is equipped with an intelligent wireless system that connects with the technology in the car and enables the driver to start the car without having to put the key in the ignition. A blue tooth hands-free phone system with controls on the steering wheel gives the driver the flexibility to lower the music volume during a call. The system provides storage of numbers, allow them to be recalled with a voice command, and also let the audio messages recorded using a voice pad.
Some of the car audio systems have options of using CDs and MP3 discs and allow the user to plug in their personal music system like iPods etc. Other electronics advancements include GPS, satellite radio, DVD/video screen, automatic climate control, and gas-mileage-monitoring features.
In the luxury segment, the multilink suspension system in the Lexus460 is redesigned to include Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). The VDIM mechanism enables the user to foresee a potential skid or slide.
The SUV sector faces a challenge in developing adequate precaution against collision and resulting side impact. SUV providers have incorporated stan dard dual-stage front driver and passenger-advanced airbags with an option of two rows of side-curtain airbags, as well as driver and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags. In line with the trend, The Toyota FJ Cruiser provides the Toyota Star Safety System that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
The threat of gradual depletion of oil resources and pollution issues have led to the development of cars with fuel cell technology. Leading auto companies including General Motors, Honda, Volkswagen, Toyota and Nissan have manufactured t he new generation hydrogen cars . The cars power the engine using fuel cells that bind oxygen and hydrogen to create an electrical current . The process reduces local air pollution and reduces reliance on oil.
Customer preferences for cars that blend with their personality have been a growing trend. Concept cars are now regulars at motor shows. Driven by Internet boom and need for personalised products, designers are creating vehicles tailor-made to customers desires. The " life vehicle" concept cars - Sea, Wave, Dunes and Blizzard, were launched by Suzuki aiming customers with an adventurous spirit. The VW GX3, from Volkswagen has been designed as a three wheeler that seats two people and is targeted at the California commuters.
The automobile designers have a daunting task ahead with the emerging demand for intelligent cars. The aging population around the world and growing concern for environment will be the driving factors for automobile designers. To cater to the first category, designers have developed intelligent cars incorporating traffic information, personalised displays, inter-vehicle communication, easy-to-operate controls and head-up displays.
In the days to come, automobile designers will have to continuously strive to meet the dynamic needs of customers through constant innovation in terms of fuel efficiency, comfort, styling and entertainment. Innovation, is the silver lining on the troubled automotive horizon.
