Michelin unveils 2011 global vehicle design contest theme

ERJ staff report (TB)

Detroit, Michigan - Michelin North America Inc. has announced the 2011 theme for its global vehicle design competition, Michelin Challenge Design.

Michelin said the theme involves transportation concepts 10 years ahead in 2021 and is called “Plus 10. The Best is Yet to Come!”

Designers are being asked to render unique vehicle concepts that address the lifestyle preferences and transportation needs of a specific country or region for review by a jury of leading transportation professionals. The vehicle designs that best represent the theme will receive prominent display in the Michelin exhibit at the 2011 North American International Auto Show.

“Milestones are opportunities for reflection and forward thinking,” said Tom Chubb, vice president of OE marketing for Michelin North and South America. “Michelin is doing both to celebrate our 10th year of competition by challenging the international design community, both professional and student, to predict or even influence the types of vehicles motorists in their specific country or region would drive in the future.”

Previous Michelin Challenge Design competitions have featured the following design themes: Italian (2002); French (2003); Cars for the emerging Chinese market (2004); German (2005); California (2006); Road Safety for Everyone (2007); Smaller, Safer, Better (2008); Iconic American Vehicles (2009); and Electric Vehicles (2010).

Entry forms and instructions for the 2011 program are available at the Michelin Challenge Design Web site.

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)

Website of the Michelin Challenge Design