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The biggest names in car design have helped to shape which aspects of design are recognised, and so alongside established disciplines like exterior and interior design and clay modelling, you will find awards for user experience, lighting and leadership.
AI EXPLORER AWARD
For a designer that uses AI as a central tool in their workflow, creating exciting new looks or accelerating processes that are usually time-consuming. An inquisitive designer that showcases how AI can optimise vehicle design.
BEST CLAY MODELLING TEAM AWARD
Sponsored by Kolb Technology
The teams that masterfully translate ideas into physical models at speed and scale, demonstrating the continued value of clay in combination with digital design. Ultimately showing a commitment to the craft.
UNSUNG HERO AWARD
Honouring the individuals or teams who work quietly behind the scenes to achieve outstanding results. This award recognises those who lead by example without seeking the spotlight.
BEST STUDIO ENGINEERING TEAM AWARD
For the team that bridges the design and engineering departments to make challenging projects a reality. This studio engineering team demonstrates how it has made the difference between a good design and a great one, advocating for design to push the boundaries of what is possible. The team should outline how they have played a pivotal role in the success of a project.
THE PETER HORBURY FELLOWSHIP AWARD
Sponsored by Bridge of Weir Leather
The Peter Horbury Fellowship will be awarded to a student on the RCA Intelligence Mobility programme in the 2024 intake who represents the highest levels of design excellence and potential. The award will be judged by a team from the IMDC chaired by Prof. Dale Harrow.
MOST SUSTAINABLE TEAM AWARD
Sponsored by Bridge of Weir Leather
For teams that champion sustainability in real-world automotive design and manufacturing. Entries should showcase a rigorous approach to material selection, demonstrate measurable sustainability impacts, and highlight collaboration with multiple departments to achieve corporate sustainability goals.
BEST CMF TEAM AWARD
Sponsored by UE Studios
Celebrating teams that craft a cohesive and sustainable aesthetic through innovative materials, colours and finishes, embedding CMF within the overall user experience. Highlighted projects should unify exterior and interior styling while balancing broader considerations for sustainability, manufacturability and UX.
BEST INTERIOR DESIGN TEAM AWARD
Sponsored by Ultrafabrics
Recognising teams that create class-leading production car interiors by pushing boundaries in ergonomics, usability, technology integration and circularity, all while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
BEST SUPPLIER AWARD
Recognising the collaboration between an OEM and a supplier that resulted in design or technological innovation. Entries should demonstrate strong teamwork, a tangible product or technology outcome, and ideally long-term impact beyond a single project.
BEYOND AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN TEAM AWARD
Awarded to projects that redefine transportation design by addressing urban planning, mobility-as-a-service (MaaS), charging infrastructure, circularity, or broader cultural challenges. Winning entries must demonstrate a strong connection between vehicle design and real-world impact.
DESIGN EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Mahindra Design
Honouring a tutor or course leader who inspires future designers through innovative thinking, mentorship, and a track record of producing graduates who challenge industry norms. Entrants can self nominate.
BEST EXTERIOR DESIGN TEAM AWARD
Sponsored by Autodesk
The teams that push exterior design forward by balancing innovation, brand DNA, aerodynamics, and efficiency to create bold, forward-thinking production vehicle designs. Why is your exterior team the best in the game?
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Sponsored by Italdesign
Part of the Car Design Review series, The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to the recipient during the CDN People Awards Ceremony. It is a prestigious accolade that commemorates the remarkable career of an industry giant. This honour serves as a testament to the individual's significant contributions, innovations, and enduring impact within their field. The award not only recognises the professional excellence of the recipient but also highlights their dedication, leadership, and influence on the industry as a whole. It stands as a symbol of respect and admiration for a lifetime of outstanding achievements and serves as an inspiration for future generations in the industry.
BEST ADVANCED DESIGN TEAM AWARD
Recognising teams that create visionary concept cars that challenge traditional aesthetics, functionality and technology. Highlighted projects should explore new design philosophies and experiences while offering a practical vision of the future of mobility. But remember, this is about the team, not the product.
BEST DIGITAL MODELLING TEAM AWARD
Sponsored by Contechs Consulting
Recognising teams that bring flat sketches to life in the virtual space, using advanced digital tools, data analysis and creative problem-solving. Entries must showcase accurate 3D modeling, innovative use of technology, and OEM-approved design execution.
BEST LIGHTING DESIGN TEAM AWARD
For teams that use lighting in innovative ways to enhance safety, user experience, brand identity and communication with the world around the car. Judges will assess originality, integration of technology, and how lighting contributes to a distinct and recognisable brand.
BEST UX/UI DESIGN TEAM AWARD
The teams that create intuitive, user-friendly experiences that strengthen the bond between car and user. From seamless digital interfaces and ergonomic physical controls to features that enhance accessibility and everyday usability, teams will be rewarded for creativity but also pragmatism.
CHALLENGING THE INDUSTRY AWARD
Recognising individuals or teams that disrupt industry norms through innovative design, visionary thinking and leadership. This award honours those who challenge conventions, drive new standards in safety, efficiency and other key metrics, or revolutionise working culture.
UNDISCOVERED TALENT AWARD
Celebrating a rising star in exterior, interior, UX/UI, CMF, or materials design—whether an emerging professional or a standout student. The recipient must showcase original thought-provoking work, strong technical skills, and an ability to design with storytelling and brand identity in mind.
