What direction do you see the future of automotive design heading towards?
Well, I think in the future, cars are going to focus very hard on fuel efficiency, compact dimensions and maximization of space within the cabin. So cars of future are going to be more functional and technically correct than driven by a designer’s wild thoughts. They will be more practical than emotional.
A basic sketch of the GT-R, made by Shiro Nakamura for Motoroids
So what do you prefer personally – practicality or emotion?
For me, personally, and being a designer, I think the emotional appeal is a very significant aspect of a car. The visual impact is very important for a car to create a strong connect with the user. I think every car should convey a message – it should have a personality which should be evident in the very first glance.
What are the core values you look for in a design? What’s the first thing you notice when you look at a car design for the first time?
For me, proportions are everything. A car has to be well proportioned to look good. If the proportions are not right, there will remain some awkwardness to the design eventually.
Are there any exceptions to this rule according to you?
To me, personally, there are no exceptions. But it also depends on personal taste – what does not appeal to me may appeal to someone else. The Jaguar E-Type, for example is considered a very beautiful car by many. But in my personal opinion, it’s too long, too horizontal – the proportions are not balanced.
The Jaguar E-Type
I also strongly believe that the character of a car should reflect very clearly. Every car model should have a personality, which should instantly reflect. If you look at Nisan cars, this trait shines through. For example, the Juke is ‘charming’ and the GT-R is ‘aggressive’.
There are auto designs which are extremely simple, like the original Mini, the Fiat 500 etc. And then there are designs which are extremely complicated like the Veyron and the Pagani cars. What do you prefer?
I personally prefer simplicity to complexity. Cars which look beautiful with simple lines and curves are more timeless.
What’s your opinion on Chris Bangle’s design?
Different people have different tastes, and that’s why different designers and different cars appeal to different people. I may or may not like the designs of Chris Bangle, but to be honest, that’s inconsequential. What’s more important to note, is that Chris Bangle is not afraid of experimenting. At BMW, he experimented, and did what he thought was modern, aggressive and contemporary. To go out and do such a thing requires a lot of courage, and that quality should be appreciated – whether or not the result is appreciated by everyone.
One final question, sir – what are your personal favorite models as regards design.
I think the 60’s Pininfarina designs represent my taste. I absolutely love the 275GTB and the 250GTO
The Ferrari 275GTB
The Ferrari 250GTO