Video: How DGT Architects created Renault's Paris show stand

The creators of the Renault stand at this year's Paris motor show have released a video explaining how they created one of the most popular show stands in recent years. The DGT Architects-designed Renault stand – named ‘The Bump' – was one of the stars of the show this year with its curves and lighting drawing praise and attracting admirers from across the event.  A total of 388 large squashed light globes that softly glowed a variety of colors were hung from the ceiling and simulated the movements of waves as they illuminated the stand below. To convey a sense of motion to the cars underneath, DGT used the movement of the lights and the creation of two hills.

Autodesk Automotive Days - Munich 2009

Autodesk's Automotive Days design conferences, launched in Munich in 2008, have highlighted the key growth area of digital prototyping. And at last month's conference the focus was once again broadened to include coverage of conceptual design and creative visualization (at the very beginning of the design process) and design for manufacture - at the culmination of the process. Speakers from Autodesk outlined the innovative features of their latest product suites, while keynote presentations from leading automotive designers such as Frank Stephenson of McLaren and Volvo's Rickard Franklin showed in fascinating detail how the benefits of these software systems were being maximized in busy corporate design studios.

Ford to host Octane Academy for action-sports junkies

Ford is making a push for younger customers with its sponsorship of extreme-sport and action-sport events. Now, the automaker wants to bring that experience to some select average Joes. Beginning in November, Ford will host an action-sports program called Octane Academy.