Automotive

Automotive & Mobility ideas and innovation researched by Piers Fawkes and the PSFK team.

Latest analysis of Automotive sector

December 2023

The automotive industry is witnessing several prominent trends that are shaping the future of mobility. One key trend is the integration of technology and connectivity into vehicles, enhancing user experiences through innovations such as smart glasses, AI-powered music experiences, and smart charging stations.

Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on simulating traditional automotive experiences in electric vehicles, providing users with familiar sensations through simulated engine sounds and display technologies. The industry also embraces heritage-inspired design, incorporating classic elements into modern aesthetics to evoke nostalgia and celebrate brand history.

Sustainability is another important trend, with a focus on low-emission transportation options like e-bikes and vehicle-to-grid technology. As the industry shifts towards electric mobility, it explores innovative features such as electric vehicles that can power homes during outages or include unique amenities like a built-in shower.

Moreover, personalization and tailored experiences are gaining importance, with smartphone apps enabling control over vehicle functions and immersive experiences capturing individual preferences.

These trends collectively reflect the industry's commitment to enhancing customer experiences, adopting sustainable solutions, and integrating advanced technologies into its offerings.

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Latest Automotive & Mobility Case Studies

In this automotive and mobility newsletter, we cover a variety of trending themes in the industry. These include technology integration, customization, sustainable transportation, urban mobility solutions, and innovative marketing approaches.

Ford, Dickies, and Sydney Sweeney have collaborated to create a second collection of apparel inspired by the 1965 Mustang, featuring a jumpsuit and jacket as well as a custom patch and Dickies logo. The line celebrates female auto-restoration enthusiasts and provides a platform for women to showcase their love of cars.

Bentley and Ducati have collaborated to create a limited-edition motorcycle with a unique bodywork color, wheel rims, and exhaust system, along with performance and styling enhancements. Only 500 Bentley Diavel for Ducati motorcycles will be sold, with an even more exclusive Bentley Mulliner version to follow.

A concept design called RIFT offers a bold and reliable sound experience for both indoor and outdoor use, with a unique oval ring shape, LED lighting, and earthy colors. This approach offers a unique approach to product design, providing a bold and unique sound experience.

Dutch solar designer Marjan van Aubel's artwork at Miami Art Week uses OPV solar cells to create a graphic pattern design based on the Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst concept car, representing the energy of driving. The artwork also harnesses solar power and stores it in batteries for its displays and features, inspiring visitors to imagine a more sustainable future.

The article discusses how Bus Rapid Transit (B.R.T.) is an effective sustainable and eco-friendly solution to improve the efficiency and reliability of bus transportation in the United States, featuring successful B.R.T. projects and challenges of implementing the form of transit.

Shimizu, a Japanese startup, has developed an e-scooter called the Arma that can fold down to the size of a laptop. It is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for urban commuters, with a range of 7 miles, swappable batteries, and a charging time of 2 hours.

Ford has partnered with utility company Xcel Energy to deploy 30,000 EV charging ports in middle America, providing businesses with the means to switch to electric vehicles and promoting a narrative of sustainable transportation through a marketing innovation.

Quote of Note

"In terms of the battery swapping, the way we look at it is a bit similar to the cloud service or the cloud infrastructure. Both power swap stations and cloud infrastructure require and rely on the network effect. Both can have a pretty long investment cycle. And both actually started with the internal services first. And after sufficient validations and verifying the demands and the fulfillment for our users’ needs, we will then open up the service to the public. So after five years of validation and internal services, we believe that we are ready to provide such a network and a service to the industry."
William Li, CEO, NIO

Macro Analysis of Market Data

At a high level, it seems that there is a growing interest and demand for electric vehicles, with countries pushing for a transition away from fossil fuel-run vehicles. Chinese car brands are also making efforts to enter and compete in the European market, with a focus on advanced battery technology and competitive pricing.

However, there are still concerns and hesitations around the adoption of driverless cars, with many Americans feeling unsafe and opposing their operation in their towns. In terms of retail, there is a growing focus on offering experiential options for consumers, and influencer content continues to play a significant role in consumer purchasing decisions.