As always the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit was an eye opening experience for the automotive industry with new concepts and production vehicles released from a number of renowned marques. Intersection-Inc. was there to witness them first hand.

 

Some of the most interesting vehicles on the show floor were the concepts displayed. With Acura releasing their Precision Concept and Buick, Audi and Nissan showing off their Avista, H-Tron and Titan Warrior Concepts respectively. On top of that we were treated to impressive new production metal from Volvo, Chrysler, Lincoln, Mercedes, Porsche and Lexus with their multiple award winning LC500 luxury sports coupe.

 

Key ideas and concepts from both OEM manufacturers and Tier One suppliers were often based around creating a deeper and more receptive human experience. A focus on forming a strong human connection to the interior of the vehicle through interface, aesthetic, material and technology all while maintaining an innovative and boundary-pushing take on the exterior form, function and ergonomics was prominent across the show floor.

 

 A constant buzz from the industry and media on the show floor represented an excitement we held to be part of the rapidly developing industry. We at intersection-Inc. are excited to be working to create innovative solutions to the challenge we face with the future of Mobility.

KEY TRENDS  A Quick Look 

 

• Mass market electric vehicles begin to arrive strongly with Chevrolet Bolt.

• Huge Tier 1 presence at show, underlining importantance of variety of upcoming sensor focussed technologies.

• Large design focus on interior and particularly user experience, often relating to autonomy or occupant comfort. An abundance of screens will display anything from safety information to entertainment or even health information. 

• The most dominant concept color was vibrant red, however a variety of bright colors were used (Luxury sedans stayed with mute classic colors). Angled and sharp automobile faces were most visible, generally leading to flowing and sculptural bodies and detailed light design.

 

EyesOn Design Awards 2016 - NAIAS

 

Chuck Pelly, EyesOn Design Lifetime Achievement Award Winner and Intersection-Inc. Chief Creative Officer, continued his commitment to the EyesOn Design Awards by acting as one of the official Judges once again. He was joined this year in Detroit by Intersection-Inc. designer Sam McCafferty who was invited as a Docent as part of the judging team.

 

New at this year's show included the 'Human Machine Interface Award' which was presented to the impressive Volvo S90, outlining the growing trend towards design for greater connection between human and technology - a strong focus in design projects at Intersection-Inc.

 

Award Winners

 

Production Car: 2017 Lexus LC500

Production Truck: 2017 Chrysler Pacifica

Concept Car: 2016 Buick Avista Concept

Concept Truck: 2016 Audi H-Tron Quattro Concept

Best Designed Interior: 2017 Lexus LC500

Innovative Use of Color, Graphics and Materials: 2016 Acura Precision Concept 

Human Machine Interface: 2017 Volvo S90

 

Sam McCafferty 2016

Photo Credit: Sam McCafferty