Tag Archives: design

History of the Volkswagen Golf – picture special

The Volkswagen Golf has become a benchmark in the world of hatchbacks. It has continuously evolved over the years, making it one of the most capable and versatile cars on the market. Despite all the changes, it still retains its original character.

The first generation of the Golf, known as the Mk1, was introduced in 1974. At that time, the hatchback genre was still in its early stages. The Golf played a significant role in shaping the hatchback market into what it is today.

Now, 46 years later, we have reached the eighth-generation model. Let’s take a look at how Volkswagen transformed a humble hatchback into an iconic car.

The Golf was designed as a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the Beetle. Its sleek lines were created by renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The Golf’s instant success can be seen in the fact that one million units had already been produced by October 1976.

While the Golf started as a practical family car, a group of passionate VW engineers turned it into a performance car. This led to the creation of the Golf GTI in the late 1970s, igniting the hot hatch trend that continues today.

VW’s in-house design team updated Giugiaro’s design for the longer and wider Mk2 Golf, which debuted in 1983. It sold an impressive 6.3 million units before being replaced by the all-new Mk3 in 1991.

The Mk3 Golf won the 1992 European Car of the Year award, succeeding the Mk2 Golf which lost to the Peugeot 205 and Fiat Uno. The more luxurious and expensive Mk4 was introduced in 1997, featuring a softer and rounder design. It was followed by the larger and faster Mk5 in 2003, which received subtle updates for the Mk6 in 2008.

In addition to the standard hatchback, there have also been estate and convertible versions of the Golf. The Golf Cabriolet, with its distinctive basket-handle rollover bar (later removed in the Mk6 Cabrio), was originally produced by Karmann on a dedicated assembly line.

Tesla Cybertruck Wrapped In Camo Spotted In California

The camouflaged look of the Tesla Cybertruck has sparked speculation about new design features or a sneak peek at what to expect when the truck goes into production. Tesla had previously mentioned that customers would have the option to choose from a variety of colors, most likely in the form of a wrap. This black-and-white camo design seen in California could potentially be one of those options.

Since its announcement in 2019, Tesla has made several promises about its all-electric truck, but there have been numerous production delays. Originally scheduled for 2021, the release date had been pushed back to 2024 at one point. Currently, the Cybertruck is expected to be available for purchase later this year.

All versions of the rear-wheel and all-wheel models are projected to reach speeds of at least 110 mph and offer a battery range between 250 and 620 miles. The Cybertruck is designed to have 100 cubic feet of storage space, a 6.5-foot-long cargo area, and 16 inches of ground clearance. With a substantial market for light-duty trucks, Tesla’s fully electric version has the potential for great success, provided it lives up to the hype built over the years. While there is a chance of further production delays, if all goes as planned, we may start seeing Tesla Cybertrucks on the road by the end of this year, some of which may still be camouflaged.

The ID.7: sophisticated aerodynamics for long range and high efficiency

The ID.7 is the first electric model from Volkswagen for the upper mid-sized class. With a range of up to 700 kilometres (WLTP), the Volkswagen limousine is an efficiency champion. In addition to a new drive generation, sophisticated aerodynamics contribute to the ID.7’s long ranges. The aerodynamically favourable basic form, low drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.23 and frontal area of 2.46 m² are the result of close cooperation between the Design and Development departments.

All Information about the new Volkswagen ID.7

New Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain Spotted at Traffic Light

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has recently been launched with a new design, advanced powertrain options, and innovative technologies. While the sedan version is already out, the automaker is still working on other iterations of the E-Class, such as the regular wagon and the raised E-Class All-Terrain. A camouflaged prototype of the latter has been captured on public roads in Germany, showing the car waiting at a traffic light in a short video.

The prototype vehicle has German registration plates, with the last digits suggesting that it is a part of the test fleet we’ve seen in the past. Though not much has been modified on the exterior since the previous spy shots, the new video does give us a glimpse of the rugged wagon in motion. 

Catamaran Superyacht Takes Inspiration From 1920s Era Boattail Speedsters

Suppose you had a thing for 1920s-era car design and wanted to make a Gatsby-esque statement at the next Monaco Grand Prix. Or perhaps you want a lair on the high seas worthy of a James Bond villain. If the answer to either of these scenarios is “yes, please,” then Andy Waugh Yacht Design has something for you. 

Dubbed the Decadence, the 80-meter, or 262-foot catamaran concept is inspired by the automotive and aeronautical advances of the 1920s. It looks like an Auburn Speedster or the “Count Trossi” 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK. But according to the design firm, it “exemplifies the potential of the SWATH hull form,” which refers to the concept of small-waterplane-area-twin-hull vessels.

First Spy Shots Of The Mahindra BE.05 Have Surfaced

The camouflaged test mule of the Mahindra BE.05 retains a lot of design elements from its concept version

  • Mahindra debuted the Mahindra BE.05 Concept in August 2022.

  • Smallest offering showcased from Mahindra’s new Born Electric line of models.

  • It will be based on the new INGLO modular platform that can support SUVs of various sizes.

  • It is expected to have a 60kWh battery pack which may offer a WLTP claimed range of over 300km.

  • Mahindra BE.05 could go on sale by the end of 2025.

It seems like the Mahindra BE.05 has already entered its development stage and the first spy shots of the test mule of the same have surfaced on the internet. The BE.05 will be based on Mahindra’s all new INGLO modular platform that can support multiple battery sizes and powertrains. Let’s have a look at the details we saw in these spy shots.

Design Similarities

Though the spied model is under heavy camouflage, it’s evident that it shares a lot of design elements from its concept version. Main highlights are the C-shaped LED DRLs which are a signature detail of the Mahindra Born Electric concepts showcased last year, including the sharp cuts on the hood.

From the side, it appears to be a pre-production version of the BE.05 with different alloy wheels to the concept housed in squared off wheel arches. Unlike the concept that featured camera-style ORVMs, this test mule wears traditional outside rearview mirrors mounted to the A-pillar.

Also Check Out: Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus Engine Output And Variants Info Out

Expected Features

Based on the concept, the Mahindra BE.05 is expected to offer a driver-centric cabin with  premium upholstery. It featured a panoramic integrated screen setup (one for the infotainment and one for the driver), airplane-style handbrake and a squared off steering wheel with the BE logo in the middle. 

Expected Range And Powertrain

The new era of Mahindra BE EVs will share components like battery packs and motors with Volkswagen’s MEB platform. The BE.05 may use a 60kWh battery pack offering a WLTP claimed range of over 300km, which could be around 450km as per Indian testing standards. As per Mahindra, it should support 175kW DC fast charging which can charge the battery from 0-80 percent in 30 minutes.

The INGLO platform is capable of accommodating both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, with outputs of up to 285PS and 394PS respectively. But since the BE.05  is a compact offering, it may get a lower state of tune at around 200PS.

Expected Launch And Rivals

Mahindra BE.05 is expected to be market-ready by the end of 2025, and likely to have a starting price of Rs 24 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. It will lock horns with the MG ZS EV, and the upcoming Tata Harrier EV and Hyundai Creta EV.

The BE.05 is one of five future EVs Mahindra has showcased so far and won’t be the first of them to launch. It is expected to come out after the all-electric version of the Mahindra XUV700 known as the XUV e8.

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DS AUTOMOBILES UNVEILS THE FUTURE OF ITS INTERIORS WITH M.I. 21

  • New interior design manifesto, M.i. 21, demonstrating the future of DS Automobiles interiors will make its public debut at the Révélations exhibition, Paris, from 7 – 11th June 2023
  • The manifesto seeks to rethink the requirements of interiors to allow more space, light and to make them more immersive and comfortable
  • M.i. 21 demonstrates a future without screens in favour of projections onto opaque material to enhance the feel and design of the interior of future DS models
  • DS Automobiles has also revealed a new website for the DS Design Studio to allow further exploration of the M.i. 21 manifesto

 

DS DESIGN STUDIO is unveiling M.i. 21 to showcase the interiors of future DS Automobile cars. M.i. 21 will be on show to the public for the first time at the Révélations exhibition, Paris, from 7 – 11 June 2023.

 

M.i. 21 is a research medium and represents the joint thinking of the design and product teams around new concepts, original shapes and technological developments. These developments will be implemented in future DS cars by the end of the decade and will feature redesigned ergonomics, HMI (Human-Machine Interface) with additional developments in colours, materials and finishes (CMF).

Unlike a concept vehicle, a design manifesto incorporates regulatory, industrial and economic demands to ensure faster production. This means that M.i. 21 can act as an important communication tool between engineering and management groups at DS Automobiles, and as a creative stimulus for the DS Design team based at the DS DESIGN STUDIO, Paris.

“Révélations is an event dedicated to expertise, craft and the excellence of craftspeople. We have been involved there since 2019. It is an opportunity to meet an audience sensitive to the avant-garde, beautiful materials, style, expertise and design. It is interesting to garner its impressions, feelings and comments, like a real-life test with experts. Our participation in Révélations also gives us the opportunity to communicate our DS x MÉTIERS D’ART design competition, which allows us to project ourselves even further.”
Thierry Metroz, DS Automobiles Design Director

 

M.i. 21 – The Future of DS interiors

Designed by Thomas Bouveret – Head of Interior Design, Vincent Lobry – Head of CMF Design, and their teams, the M.i. 21 manifesto reinterprets the language for tomorrow’s interiors supporting the art of travel. This includes:

Light is a key contributor to the in-car sensory experience and contributes to well-being in the cockpit. Utilising both direct and indirect sources to give lightness to the features and bring a new dimension to the materials, it will be adaptive, intelligent, and connected to its environment. The light circles in the doors enhance the materials within the door panels.

To free up more room within the cabin, the architecture of the interior has allowed more space to be freed up by making the dashboard float and by pushing it forwards. The floor is freed up and redesigned, without a central tunnel or centre console, and the glass surfaces are increased to offer more space, freedom and tranquility inside. Storage is inspired by the world of furniture while a subtle play of balance between materials, the sensation of touch and the distribution of volumes takes place to provide a feeling of well-being.

As part of M.i. 21, the DS Design team chose to put an end to the constant one-upmanship of sound system components to gain space. The work illustrated in the manifesto is both more visually rewarding and more in harmony with a fluid and refined style. All sound technology has been brought together on a central feature, an iconic object by design, its positioning in the cabin and the lighting that accompanies it.  The acoustic quality of DS interiors allows sound to become part of the journey: it can amplify the experience or disappear to bring a sense of opulence.

M.i. 21 demonstrates how the human-machine relationship can be redesigned. Exploring how to make interiors less intrusive and more ‘magical’ began on the  DS AERO SPORT LOUNGE in 2020, where the information was projected onto satin cotton rather than shown on intrusive screens. The disappearance of screens was intended to reduce mental overload and limit information to only that which is required. The race for the size or number of screens is a strong trend among all manufacturers. But, turned off, these screens have no real aesthetic value. The idea is to find technology that gives the expected information without sacrificing quality and sensory appeal. With the M.i. 21 manifesto, an innovative solution is being tested by projecting relevant information onto a strip that can be made opaque to display information or become transparent to uncover materials. The only concession to screens are those located in the doors and devoted to rear-facing cameras. The whole system is controlled by voice or by a remote control system located in the central armrest.

  • the artistic dimension

One objective pursued by the M.i. 21 manifesto is to go further in the bespoke offering for customers. Enhanced by a customisable work of art, adaptable to each customer’s taste. The absence of a speaker frees up space in the doors. This space is reinvested to create more storage space and to emphasise and differentiate the cockpit, with a signature and strong graphic design.

 

Questions to Thierry METROZ, DS Automobiles Design Director

  • What is a manifesto, what are the differences to a concept car?

“A manifesto is a working tool, a real accelerator of change that we use to reflect on the future. Physically, it is a model that normally has to stay secret, because it incorporates a lot of our future.

These models are a link between our vision and our projects in development. They help guide our work and share this research for the brand with the group’s engineering and management. We can also carry out tests to measure the level of attractiveness.

As it is an internal research tool, our teams use it to unleash their creativity while integrating the fact that most of the elements must be able to be put into production. And this is where the big difference lies with a concept car that remains barely, if at all, capable of being manufactured.

Last point, the time factor is important, with a 100% digital design it takes less than 6 months between the first sketch and the finalised model.

The manifestos crystallise our thoughts on a future product right now and gives the roadmap.”

  • What is the message from this manifesto and does it represent the interior of a future model?

“The M.i. 21 manifesto that we are showing at Révélations is important to the history of our brand. It underlines an approach of openness on our part. We are sharing our creative process and vision with a wide audience of connoisseurs, as much in the automotive world as in the world of craft.

We are experiencing a historic transformation of automotive interiors. New architectures related to electric platforms, autonomous driving modes, the arrival of artificial intelligence and, most importantly, the desire of our customers to live a different experience are central to our thinking. The M.i. 21 manifesto illustrates these profound changes, an opportunity for us to share a unique vision of the French art of travel.”

DS DESIGN STUDIO.PARIS, behind the scenes of design

In parallel with its introduction at the Révélations exhibition, the M.i. 21 manifesto is also being unveiled on the new DS DESIGNSTUDIO.PARIS website, www.dsdesignstudio.paris

The DS DESIGN STUDIO.PARIS website is complementary to the DS Automobiles website and allows the public to further explore the design of the brand’s creations, its expertise and its collaborations, including M.i. 21. Through exclusive interviews, they will discover the vision and passion of the women and men who shape the design for the brand’s future projects.

“We want to take more of the general public behind the scenes, like a chef would invite his clientele into the kitchen. Our first motivation is to share our passion with visitors to the site, who only see a part of our designs in our showrooms and occasionally at shows. We want to explain to as many people as possible the genesis of the design of our concept cars and production models. In the LAB section of the DS DESIGN STUDIO.PARIS website, visitors will discover some designs they won’t be expecting to see from a car design centre.”

Thierry METROZ, DS Automobiles Design Director.

The Révélations exhibition is an international biennial for craft and design held in Paris, at the Grand Palais Ephémère.

 

photos and videos to download

https://sharing.oodrive.com/share-access/sharings/-qvnQ2YK.LllilwLR

 

OPERATION #CAMOCATCH FOR THE NEW 3008 HAS CLOSED AND THE RESULTS ARE IN

PEUGEOT gave its followers the opportunity to choose the design of the camouflage that will be used by the new PEUGEOT 3008 during its development tests on the roads of Europe.

 

During May, ten innovative and striking camouflage designs from PEUGEOT were submitted to a public vote on the brand’s social media pages. These designs disguise the shape and body lines of the new PEUGEOT 3008 while building excitement online for the upcoming reveal.

 

There were thousands of contributions from the public on the brand’s social media pages: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

 

Of the ten options from the PEUGEOT designers, the six that received the most votes were the following:

 

•           Paint from the “Street Art” theme.

•           Menthol from the “Optic Art” theme.

•           Jazzy from the ‘Proto’type’ theme.

•           Neon from the “Street Art” theme.

•           Marrakech for the “Optic Art” theme.

•           Tokyo for the “Proto’type” theme.

 

The six camouflages selected by the public will be produced in June and will be used to cover the new PEUGEOT 3008 which will be tested on European roads between 15th July and 15th August.

 

During this time, we invite all those lucky enough to see one of these camouflaged PEUGEOT 3008s to take a photo of it (in compliance with road safety regulations) and post the image to one of the brand’s social media pages with the words #CamoCatch and @Peugeot.

 

All the entries (one entry per person) that have been submitted on social media will be collated by the brand to determine six winners, who will be invited to be among the first to experience the new PEUGEOT 3008 in 2024.

 

Peugeot has been implementing a strategy of collaborations and partnerships with young designers since the beginning of 2023. This time, the brand has broadened the collaboration to a wider, international audience via social media.

 

PEUGEOT REVEALS NEW 2008 WITH UPDATED DESIGN AND NEW ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAINS

PEUGEOT has revealed the new 2008, with a more assertive SUV design, enhanced technology and new electrified powertrains.

 

Launched at the end of 2019 and with nearly 700,000 units produced, the PEUGEOT 2008 has consistently been among the top three best-selling B-segment SUVs in Europe, topping the list in 2021. The success of this model is attributed particularly to the e-2008, which accounted for 17.4% of European 2008 sales in 2022.

 

The new 2008 features an updated, more assertive design, an enhanced i-Cockpit® and a new electric powertrain for the new e-2008 that offers up to 252 miles of range (WLTP). It will be open for orders in the summer with a choice of three trim levels – Active, Allure and GT.

 

Design

 

The new 2008 features an updated design which reflects its move upmarket and strengthens its SUV status. The model has a new, wider front end incorporating the new PEUGEOT shield and includes a specific lateral pattern that connects to the headlamps. On Active versions, the front end is enhanced with a horizontal pattern in gloss black, while on Allure and GT versions, the front end has a vertical pattern in the same colour as the bodywork.

 

The front of the new 2008 also adopts the latest PEUGEOT light signature first seen on the new 508 and 508 SW, which is characterised by three vertical light claws integrated into the gloss black inserts on the bumper. GT versions feature exclusive full LED headlamps made up of three light modules. This distinguishes the GT versions from the rest of the range by giving them an exclusive front-end signature.

 

At the rear, the new 2008’s distinctive three-claw light signature has also been redesigned. The LED rear lights are made up of three superimposed horizontal double slats, which help to visually widen the car’s stance. The reversing lights and indicators are also LEDs.

 

The front, side and rear badges of the new 2008 have been given a new typeface and are finished in a new Basalt Grey colour, while the new e-2008 has an “E” badge in Dichroic Blue and White. At the rear, the PEUGEOT monogram runs across the entire width of the boot lid.

 

The new 2008 is available with alloy wheels ranging from 16-18 inches, with a disruptive design in line with those introduced on the new PEUGEOT 408. Customers have a choice of six body colours: Selenium Grey, Cumulus Grey, Okenite White, Nera Black, Elixir Red and Vertigo Blue. All versions feature gloss black door mirrors, while GT models feature a black bi-tone roof.

 

PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®

 

PEUGEOT’s innovative i-Cockpit® has been updated for the new 2008, with a new design for the 10-inch digital instrument cluster, which features a 3D display on GT versions. The colour of the display, the order and the layout of the information can be fully adjusted to suit the driver’s preferences.

 

All new 2008 models now come with a 10-inch central touchscreen as standard. Under the central screen, the piano keys allow quick access to key functions.

 

Finally, the new 2008’s compact steering wheel displays the new PEUGEOT logo in its centre and houses controls for the infotainment system, as well as voice control. On GT models, steering wheels also feature a new GT badge on the lower part of its rim.

 

The interior of the new 2008 also benefits from new seat fabrics throughout, including new Alcantara® upholstery available as an option on GT versions.

 

Technology

 

On Allure trims and above, the new 2008 is available with PEUGEOT’s i-Connect® infotainment system, which offers full connectivity through wireless phone mirroring (Apple CarPlay™/Android Auto). The system can be controlled via the central 10-inch high-definition touchscreen or via natural voice recognition, activated by saying “Ok PEUGEOT.”

 

PEUGEOT i-Connect®  Advanced is available as an option across the range, which adds a high-performance TomTom® connected navigation system with over-the-air updates.

 

For easier and safer driving, the new 2008 comes with a range of driver assistance features, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Automatic Emergency Braking, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Alert and Blind Spot Monitoring. For enhanced traction, Advanced Grip Control, together with all-season tyres, is also offered, which provides access to three additional driving modes: Sand, Mud and Snow.

 

Powertrains

 

The new 2008 will be available with a range of electric, hybrid (from 2024), and petrol powertrains, enabling each customer to choose the version that best suits their needs.

 

From launch, the new fully-electric PEUGEOT e-2008 benefits from a larger 54kWh battery and a new electric motor, with maximum power increasing by 18% to 156hp. The range also increases to 252 miles (WLTP mixed cycle), up from 214 miles.

 

Two types of onboard chargers are available on the new PEUGEOT e-2008: as standard, a single-phase 7.4kW charger and, as an option, a three-phase 11kW charger. The new e-2008 can be recharged from 0-80% in 30 minutes from a 100kW rapid charger, or 7 hours 30 minutes from a 7.4kW charger.

 

In 2024, the new 2008 will also be available with a new 48V HYBRID powertrain, which consists of a new-generation 136bhp 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine, coupled with a new six-speed dual-clutch electrified gearbox that includes an electric motor. Thanks to a battery that recharges while driving, this technology offers extra torque at low engine speeds and up to 15% lower fuel consumption. In urban driving, the new 2008 equipped with the HYBRID system can operate more than 50% of the time in electric mode.

 

PEUGEOT will continue to offer customers a choice of advanced 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engines. The PureTech 100 is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox featuring a new gearshift knob for improved ergonomics, while the PureTech 130 can be combined with either the EAT8 eight-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual gearbox.

 

MyPEUGEOT® app

 

The launch of the new 2008 coincides with the introduction of three new features to the MyPEUGEOT® app, including a virtual maintenance book which stores all invoices and keeps a record of all work carried out on the car. Journey details can also be sent to the onboard navigation system in advance via the app. Lastly, MyPEUGEOT® can now assist with journey planning for electric vehicle drivers by predicting the level of charge available when you arrive at your destination. Drivers can continue to pre-condition the cabin and to check, schedule, start or defer charging remotely via the app.

 

 

THE PEUGEOT 9X8 AND J. DEMSKY’S GRAPHIC DESIGN SPACE AT MILAN DESIGN WEEK

The new graphic design of the PEUGEOT 9X8 Hypercar has been created in collaboration with the artist J. Demsky and has been unveiled at the Milan Design Week. Not only a premiere of the PEUGEOT 9X8 Hypercar’s new livery, but the collaboration also offers a unique exhibition of a full graphic universe with the exclusive artistic signature of J. Demsky.

 

During the Milan Design Week, PEUGEOT will be showcasing an environment specially created for this event, which combines art and technology. Visitors to the exhibition can dive into an immersive universe, made up of an array of digital screens featuring both the unique style of J. Demsky’s graphic art and the new livery for the PEUGEOT 9X8 Hypercar.

 

Matthias Hossann, PEUGEOT Design Director, Phil York, PEUGEOT Global Marketing and Communication Director, and Gustavo Menezes, PEUGEOT TotalEnergies Team Driver, were all in attendance for the reveal of the new livery. The PEUGEOT 9X8 Hypercar will be on public display until 23 April.

 

When imagining the new livery for the 9X8, J. Demsky went beyond just decorating a car, he is sending out a powerful message, in the great tradition of the Art Cars that have marked automotive history, by applying it to a sports car that expresses the very best of PEUGEOT in terms of design, efficiency and technology. J. Demsky is a Spanish artist with an eclectic style that has been put to further use by creating a graphic design for the drivers’ suits and helmets as well.

 

PEUGEOT is pursuing its strategy of partnering with talented young artists. The graphic design of the PEUGEOT 9X8 is the second collaboration in 2023 and perfectly illustrates the promise that “The world is better with style“.

 

The unique graphic design featured on the 9X8 will take part in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year. The PEUGEOT 9X8 Hypercar will thus follow in the footsteps of its illustrious predecessors, the 905 (winner at Le Mans in 1992 and 1993) and the 908 (2009). This 4-wheel drive hypercar brings PEUGEOT’s hybrid know-how to the world stage of motorsport at the highest level.

 

The PEUGEOT TotalEnergies Team has been involved in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) since July 2022 with two 9X8s. In 2023, for its first full season, PEUGEOT Sport is aiming for the podium.