"XPLORE" Looks Into The Future of Car Design

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Sept 8 2015, Los Angeles CA – In the world of auto design there’s always something new. XPLORE, presented by AutoDesignO and the Motor Press Guild, provides members and guests an intriguing glimpse into the future. “XPLORE” uncovers the thinking behind great designs. Impressive displays from participating Southern California companies are showcasing new products and services, ranging from cars to technology.

The invitation-only event held at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club also provides a rare look at the talent, inspirations, and innovations found on the West Coast. XPLORE, held on September 1, 2015, is allowing the attendees to discover first-hand some of the latest industry developments.

Featured speakers Julien Montousse – Design Manager of Mazda R&D North America; Philip Lunn – Founder and CEO of Nurulize; and Bill Barranco – Director of Autovision RCD, are standout figures in the future of automotive design. Each featured speaker is enlightening the guests with their perspectives on designing successfully for today and tomorrow.

For over a half-century, automotive products have been flaunting expressive designs that reflect the West Coast lifestyle. But, the changes that are currently afoot are nothing less than incredible, and are happening at a pace never before seen.

John Grafman, Executive Director of AutoDesignO, states, “XPLORE is a chance for those in the automotive media and design professionals to interact with West Coast influences in a welcoming, Newport Beach bayside setting. This region of the world is a breeding ground for new talent and technology, and this is why we are here today.”

Mazda MX-5 Miata, Mazda 6 Ceramic Concept & CX-3

Mazda is currently undergoing a change at its Irvine, CA design studio. Julien Montousse is a substantial force this transformation. Julien shares his thoughts based on his global experiences. His insight on the development of the new Miata and other projects provides XPLORE guests a peek at what makes Mazda unique.

Featured Sponsor Nurulize demonstrates virtual reality simulations of digital designs and scans. This technology from Nurulize employs the Oculus Rift VR headsets, which allows creative digital designers to experience their work with amazingly life-like results. This VR system will be expediting the auto design process, and making it more affordable than ever before.

Bill Barranco, Director of Autovision RCD, is revealing the new directions that the industry is moving. His extensive background in executive recruitment for the auto design industry allows him a view that very few ever see. Barranco explains that many automotive companies are placing much greater emphasis, both in design and technology, in the Silicon Valley. This shift might fundamentally change the automobile, as we know it.

Charmaine Joie Couture Fashions

The evolution of design requires new influences to trigger change. XPLORE provides those in the form of fashion and watercraft, as well as inspiring cars.

Products featured at XPLORE included the new Mazda MX-5 Miata, CX-3, and Mazda 6 Ceramic Concept created for the SEMA Show.

Additionally, attendees are thrilled by the Ferretti Group’s sleek 44’ Riva Rivarama motor boat, an impressive collection of fashions from Charmaine Joie Couture, and Rezvani Motors’ bold, sports car – the Beast, which is built locally in Orange County, CA. The Rezvani is pushing the envelope on performance and style.

Rezvani Motors’ bold, sports car – the Beast

Supporting and in-Kind sponsors included Mothers Polish, The Sketch Farm, The Car Lab, and Take Two TV.

About: AutoDesignO (the Automotive Design Organization) is a professional association, which is improving access to people, essential information, as well as a culture exchange within the automotive design profession, and beyond the studio walls. The organization strives to expand the presence and prominence of the design industry.

The organization is committed to all professionals in the automotive design industry. AutoDesignO encompasses all aspects of the trade providing enhanced business relations and communication, resources for studios, relevant news, special events, and additional global opportunities for members that only an association can provide. More at www.autodesigno.com.

Video footage is available from Take Two TV at – http://www.ustream.tv/channel/take-two-tvproductions

Source: AutoDesignO

Photos: Randy Berg