2015 Michelin Challenge Design Automotive Press Association design panel

The Automotive Press Association (APA) Design Panel is the first of several milestones in the annual Michelin Challenge Design (MCD) calendar of events. In keeping with the 2015 MCD Theme of Drive Your Passion: Engaging Senses, Soul and Emotion, this year's panel discussion focused the importance of passion in vehicle design in the high-tech, highly-constrained future. Hosted on 7 May 2014 at the Detroit Athletic Club, over 80 people attended the APA members-only event sponsored by Michelin Challenge Design.

Toyota GT86 Convertible teased by FT-86 Open Concept for Geneva

A roadster version of the Toyota GT86 now seems certain as Toyota tease an open-topped roadster for Geneva with the FT-86 Concept. It took Toyota a long time to deliver the promise of an ‘affordable’ sports car, but the Toyota GT86 has delivered a proper driver’s car at a sensible price (and you can even have it as a Subaru BRZ if you choose). So a success with a single sports car model can mean only one thing – more versions of the same car.

Design Contest: Michelin Challenge Design announces 2008 theme and call for entries

Michelin Challenge Design, one of the world's fastest growing transportation design programs, has announced it will continue its focus on safety in 2008 under the central theme of 'Safety over Size.' The 2008 theme was announced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit showcased works from vehicle manufacturers, students, as well as the first full-size concept to be submitted by an independent entrant. Rising energy costs, urban congestion and environmental concerns are all contributing to an increased interest in smaller vehicles, but consumers are often hesitant to consider smaller vehicles due to safety concerns that are both real and perceived. Participating designers are encouraged to 'throw away the book' and to present ideas that enhance the real and perceived safety and security of smaller vehicles through design innovations in areas such as accident avoidance, enhanced driver controls, survivability and visibility.