In this episode of the GESTALTEN podcast, host Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus speaks with Wonkyu Kang, VP and Head of the Kia Future Design Group.

This episode takes an in-depth look at the vital role of team culture and design education in Korea's thriving automotive industry. We explore how these elements have shaped Kia’s global success, driving innovation and collaboration on a worldwide scale.

The conversation touches on the influence of Korean culture—marked by curiosity and a drive for innovation—on design practices, as well as the evolution of design education in Korea and its impact on nurturing creative talent. Finally, we highlight how Kia’s holistic approach and digital advancements are setting new standards in the world of car design.

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In this episode of the GESTALTEN podcast, host Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus speaks with Ian Cartabiano, VP Advanced Design at Calty Design Research, Inc. (a Toyota company).

This episode takes an in-depth look at the unique role California plays in the world of car design. We discuss how the state's culture, diversity, and tech-forward approach create an environment where designers can thrive. The conversation touches on the evolution of design studios like Calty, their influence on both design and production, and the technological advances that are reshaping car design.

We also explore how California’s blend of tradition and modernity fosters creativity, and the future of car design as it becomes more global in taste. Finally, we emphasize the importance of strong ties between universities and car companies in shaping the next generation of designers.

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In this episode of the GESTALTEN podcast, host Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus sits down with renowned automotive designer and entrepreneur Sasha Selipanov, founder of Nilu27, to explore the dynamic world of car design and entrepreneurship.

With extensive experience in both the European and Californian design landscapes, Sasha shares invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by design studios in California, the cultural contrasts between European and Californian design philosophies, and why California remains a magnet for creative talent. This episode offers a deep dive into the innovative spirit that defines car design on the West Coast, and how it compares to the more skeptical, yet precise, approach in Europe.

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In this episode of GESTALTEN, host Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus, sits down with the dynamic founders of Oilstainlab, Nikita and Iliya Bridan.

Known for their unique approach to automotive design, including the famous Half11 project, the Bridan twins share their insights into the ever-evolving world of car design. In the conversation, they discuss not only the Half11 project, but all things car design culture as well as their work as teachers at Art Center. Tune in for an engaging conversation that explores the past, present, and future of automotive design, and what it means to push boundaries in this creative field.

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In this episode, Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus, sits down with David Woodhouse, Vice President at Nissan Design America and responsible for leading all Nissan and INFINITI design activities in North America.

At the Nissan Design Center in San Diego, Martin and David are meeting up to have an engaging conversation on the key influences on car design in California: culture and diversity. In a deep dive, David explains his view on the differences between car design in California compared to Europe and Michigan. The talk also covers the influence of tech in Silicon Valley and how a mix of perspectives and experiences brings out the best results.

Whether you're an automotive enthusiast, a design professional, or simply curious about the creative forces behind your favorite cars, this season promises to be a treasure trove of insights and inspiration.

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In this episode, Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus, sits down with Andre Franco Luis, an Advanced Design Manager at Kia America.

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In this episode, Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus, sits down with Chris Chapman, a seasoned automotive designer with over three decades of experience working with BMW and Hyundai and now being active as the Adjunct Professor at ArtCenter College of Design.

Broadcasting from the heart of New Port Beach, California, this episode delves into the unique aspects of Californian car design and its influence on the global automotive industry. We dive deep into the evolution of car design, exploring how it was then and how it is now. Chris discusses what he believes is missing in modern automotive design and offers a nostalgic yet forward-looking perspective on the industry's future. This is a unique opportunity to hear from a design legend who is seldom seen in interviews.

Whether you're an automotive enthusiast, a design professional, or simply curious about the creative forces behind your favorite cars, this episode promises to be a treasure trove of insights and inspiration.

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Anne Forschner, BMW New Class InCar & NonCar Experiences at BMW, and Martin Groschwald, CEO of Konzepthaus delve deeper into the topic of diversity in exterior design teams.

Anne shares her journey as one of the few female exterior designers in the industry. She looks at why there's still a gender gap in exterior design compared to other disciplines such as UX and interiors, due to the competitive nature of this niche.

Tune in to find out why diverse teams are crucial to shaping the future of automotive design and how we can encourage more women to pursue careers in the field.

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Claudia Braun, former head of CMF design for Rivian, Volvo, Polestar, Porsche and Mercedes and now Project Leader at Konzepthaus recounts her remarkable journey navigating a male-dominated industry, discussing challenges such as the lack of female mentors and balancing career aspirations with societal stereotypes around motherhood. As a role model for her children, her team and women in the industry, she candidly shares her struggles to establish her leadership style while remaining authentic amidst professional pressures.

Drawing on her experiences in German and Swedish car design companies, she highlights the influence of Swedish culture on her leadership approach.

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Amy Frascella, former Materiality Director at Jaguar & Land Rover talks about her journey in the automotive design world, navigating a heavily male-dominated industry. From adapting to a non-inclusive environment early in her career to witnessing a shift in leadership mindset, Amy shares personal insights on communicating and collaborating at the executive level, overcoming stereotypes, and finding mentors for personal growth. Join us as she discusses her challenges in evolving automotive design departments.

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