Students from Ravensbourne design college in London have presented their visions of the future to the Ford design specialists behind the all-new Fiesta.
Ford interior designer, Jens Sieber, and exterior designer, Ivan Telesca, assessed the presentations and chose the top three going through to the next round of a competition which will also include submissions from France, Germany, Spain and Italy,
Team Dies Nox designed an interior around a 270-degree centre console screen running along the floor, the rear of the cabin and its roof for all occupants to be able to reach, swipe and share digital content. The design included steam-curved bamboo which already being researched by Ford as a fast-growing renewable material for future vehicles.
95-year-old American business woman and interior designer, Iris Apfel (instagram.com/iris.apfel), was the inspiration for Team Iris’ entry. Drawing on her “world’s oldest teenager” lifestyle, a pop-up roof and bar stool seating converted the interior into social space – with stools detaching from the car to deliver Iris directly onto the red carpet of events.
Team Nomad chose fibre optics for its interior material to mould to the number of occupants and their desire to sit or recline. Nomad’s concept involved a brain-computer connection, syncing occupant to vehicle. Fibre optics data-carrying capability allowed the technology to monitor and respond to changes in body temperature, organs and the health of passengers.
Jens Sieber, Ford Fiesta chief interior designer, said: “Ravensbourne’s students have very successfully illustrated possible future car interiors, inspired by the leap inside new Fiesta. I was thrilled by the quality presented, which took into account customer research to help shape workable next-generation interiors.”
Following the display of the three best Ravensbourne projects at Ford’s European design studio alongside other finalists from France, Germany, Spain and Italy, an overall UK winner will be selected for a work experience placement with Ford designers in Cologne in the Autumn – as well as receiving £600 in prize money.
Course leader, Idrees Rasouli, said: "Ravensbourne has first class industry connections, and opportunities like this ensure our students learn the skills needed to thrive in industry, gain the chance to transfer their interior design and architectural skills into vehicle design and make them highly employable."
The new Ford Fiesta is on sale now and set to arrive in dealerships this Summer.