Michelin Challenge Design announces 2014 theme: ‘Driven/Undriven: The Duality of Tomorrow’s Automobiles’

Michelin has announced the theme for the 2014 Michelin Challenge Design competition – ‘Driven/Undriven: The Duality of Tomorrow's Automobiles'.

Participants will explore the human-to-vehicle connection, focusing on how this can evolve automotive design.

The exploration of autonomous vehicles has gathered pace in recent years, with Toyota displaying its autonomous Lexus car at the recent CES in Las Vegas, while other carmakers and even Google have been investing heavily in the concept. Now, with populations increasing along with vehicle and traffic demands, it appears autonomous vehicles will play a big part in keeping the world moving.

Traditionally a driver has always been closely connected to their vehicle. The freedom it gives and the personality it can exude means a great deal to their owners, and the idea of autonomous vehicles removing that sense of passion is a concern for many. This competition asks designers to explore how a connection can be created with autonomous vehicles.

Final submissions are due June 1 2013. The entry process and more information can be found on the official website.

By Rufus Thompson