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.

Vehicle designs that best represent the theme 'Sharing the Road - Big Safety/Small Vehicles' will be reviewed by a jury of professional design and safety experts whose names will be announced later in 2007. The works they select will receive prominent display in the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

Previous Michelin Challenge Design competitions have featured design themes including: Italian (2002), French (2003), Cars for the Emerging Chinese market (2004), German (2005), California (2006) and Road Safety for Everyone (2007).

Michelin Challenge Design will accept submissions until April 12, 2007.
For complete rules and entry information, visit www.michelinchallengedesign.com

By