EyesOn Design Awards at NAIAS 2015

The 2016 Ford GT won in the best production vehicle category, placing ahead of the Acura NSX and the Mercedes Benz GLE Class Coupe.

Judges explained that the GT “capturing the original GT40 in a modern interpretation…and the optimism it showcases for both the Ford brand and the industry.”

The Buick Avenir Concept placed first in two categories: the Best Designed Concept Vehicle (ahead of the Chevrolet Bolt EV and the Mercedes Benz F015) and the Innovative Use of Color, Graphics & Materials award, among the other finalists: Audi Q7, Mercedes Benz F015, VW Cross Coupe GLE.

“The attention to detail within Avenir is outstanding,” said Charles Allen, a retired automotive designer who served as a chief judge for the 2015 EyesOn Design Awards.

“What stands out to me is how well everything is integrated – all of the materials and elements work together seamlessly to provide a sensation of understated elegance that fits the Buick brand perfectly.”

The Best Designed Interior Award went to the 2016 Audi Q7, selected among two other finalists – the Avenir and the Infiniti Q60.

Judges cited its “beautiful theme…wonderful fit and finish…great ergonomics and use of materials.”

The renewed Q7 interior features a combination of clean and simple lines, with a reduced number of buttons and a modular infotainment platform featuring a MMI all-in-touch control and the Audi virtual cockpit system.

The winner were selected by a large jury composed of active and retired design heads of automotive manufacturers and transportation design chairs from top art schools.

Lastly, the special 2015 Catalyst Award was presented to automotive veteran Robert Lutz, who has held top executive positions at BMW, Chrysler, Ford and General Motors, and retired as vice chairman from GM in 2010.

For the complete list of judges check the EyesOn Design Awards website.

(Source: EyesOn Design Awards)