CDN-GM Interactive Design Competition - Exterior Phase Launched

We're pleased to announce the launch of the second phase of the CDN-GM Interactive Design Competition, which challenges design students in North America to create an exterior design in response to briefs from each of GM's four brands – Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC. This second, exterior design phase of the competition – which can be found at www.cardesigncontest.com – follows on from the previous interiors design phase and again challenges students to design against briefs set by each of GM's four brands. Remember, you don't have to have entered or registered for the interiors phase in order to take part in this exterior phase of the competition.

Maybach coupe set for limited production

German-based engineering specialist Xenatec has announced plans for an exclusive new Maybach coupe to rival the Bentley Brooklands and the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe. The new two-door, which will ride on the same underpinnings and draw power from the same engine as the Maybach 57S, is planned to be built in a limited run of 100 cars at the company’s workshop in Weinsberg, Germany, all with the blessing of Maybach parent company, Daimler. Daimler has carefully followed the car’s development and will supply built-up 57S chassis from its nearby Sindelfingen-based manufacturing headquarters.

Jaguar C-X17 concept (2013) design boss Ian Callum on interior design

As with all concept cars, the Jaguar C-X17’s interior is the least production-viable element of the entire design, but it does give vital clues to the direction that design boss Ian Callum and his team are evaluating for the future. The focus is on clean, strong, flowing design, one that shuns clutter for pared-back simplicity. Open the door and you’ll notice both the sense of space and the small F-type steering wheel and four individual bucket seats, the latter two elements suggesting a nimble, involving driving experience.