Michelin seeks 'iconic' vehicle designs

Detroit, Michigan - “America's Next Iconic Vehicle” will be the theme of the 2009 Michelin Challenge Design, Michelin North America Inc.'s annual global vehicle design competition.

“Every designer dreams of creating an object that achieves iconic stature,” said Tom Chubb, vice president of marketing for Michelin's Automotive Industry Division. “In the automotive world, design is a primary differentiating factor and helps consumers connect to a vehicle.”

“With next year's theme,” he continued, “we offer a fantastic opportunity to see what the international design community-veteran and student-thinks about the future of transportation in America and what designs will shape the next generation of great American icons.”

Designers are asked to render unique vehicle concepts that demonstrate emotional appeal, design courage and technical execution when reviewed by a jury of transportation industry professionals whose names will be announced later in 2008. Next year's event will the eighth annual.

Additional consideration will be given to entries with attributes that benefit safety and the environment and include a separate rendering of the tyre and wheel component assembly, Michelin said. Designs that best represent “America's Next Iconic Vehicle” will be displayed at the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Previous Michelin Challenge Design competitions have featured the design themes: Smaller, Safer, Better (2008); Road Safety for Everyone (2007); California (2006); German (2005); Emerging Chinese Market (2004); French (2003); and Italian (2002).

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)

Entry form from Michelin