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King of the Climb: Fortuner’s Reign on Every Terrain

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Introduction : The Toyota Fortuner, a mid-size SUV launched in 2004, is a flagship model in Toyota’s SUV lineup for emerging and developing markets. Designed on the Toyota Hilux pickup platform, the Fortuner combines rugged utility with urban sophistication. From a designer’s viewpoint, the Fortuner is an exercise in blending form and function, ensuring appeal across diverse markets such as India, Thailand, South Africa, and Indonesia. 1. Design Philosophy & Concept The design philosophy behind the Fortuner revolves around "Robustness and Prestige" . Toyota aimed to create an SUV that was not only capable of handling tough terrains but also exuded a premium presence on urban roads. Key Design Goals: Strength and durability (off-road capability) Commanding presence (visual dominance) Comfort and luxury (interior aesthetics and features) Practicality (versatile layout and ergonomics) 2. Exterior Design Analysis a. Proportions and Stance The For...

The Moving Mansion: Kia Carnival Through a Designer’s Eye

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Introduction: The Vision Behind the Van In a market often driven by compact crossovers and rugged SUVs, the Kia Carnival stands out as a premium MPV with a bold design language. As a 3D experience designer, working on such a vehicle offers a unique opportunity to blend space optimization, luxury aesthetics, and advanced modeling techniques.   This case study explores the 3D modeling journey of the Kia Carnival —from sketch to surface, to simulation and storytelling. The Kia Carnival was designed under the leadership of Karim Habib , who is the Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center . 1. Design Intent: More Than Just a Minivan The design philosophy behind the Kia Carnival was to reimagine what a people mover could look and feel like. Instead of a boxy utility vehicle, the Carnival embodies a “Grand Utility Vehicle” identity—a visual harmony between SUV aggression and MPV functionality . Design Goals: Sleek yet strong silhouette Dynamic digital surface tra...

Roaring Through Time: The Legacy of RE Classic 350

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“It’s not just a motorcycle, it’s a legacy.” As a designer, I’ve worked on modern scooters, electric two-wheelers, even premium sedans. But the day I stepped into the Royal Enfield plant to work on the Classic 350 , something felt different. This wasn’t just another manufacturing project—it was like stepping into a museum that was alive, roaring, and riding into the future. I wasn’t here to just make a bike. I was here to help build a timeless machine —in the most modern way possible.  The Challenge: Vintage Soul, Modern Spine The Classic 350 is iconic. That bulbous tank, the upright stance, the thump of its engine—all deeply nostalgic. But nostalgia doesn’t fit easily on a production line. As an experience designer , my job was to help Royal Enfield modernize how they build the 350—without killing what people love about it . How do you automate something that’s supposed to feel handmade? How do you build thousands of bikes a month t hat each feel personal ? That was...

BE.06: Sculpting Mahindra’s Electric Identity

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Drafting the Future – 2D Design Insights on Mahindra BE.06  Title (Unique & Unused) : “Lines of Tomorrow: A Designer’s Take on Mahindra BE.06’s 2D Drafting Evolution”

The Volkswagen Polo – A German Machine Lost in Indian Chaos

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Introduction: A Silent Performer in a Loud Market When I first sat in the Volkswagen Polo , it wasn’t the flashy touchscreen or gimmicky lighting that drew my attention—it was the precise engineering in its automation. The smooth gear shifts, the weighty steering, the way the doors shut with a thud—it spoke a language few Indian hatchbacks understood.  As a designer who studies how machines speak to humans, I was fascinated. Yet, I couldn’t ignore the irony: a 5-star capable car, built like a tank, had become a showroom ghost in one of the world's most competitive markets. Design Direction: Minimalism vs. Market Pulse What Went Right: Build Quality: As an experience designer, I admired the Polo’s "shut-line philosophy" —tight tolerances, solid panels, and tactile feedback across controls. Driver-Centric Interface: The ergonomics were pure German —logical button placements, functional dashboard, and minimal distractions. Transmission Design (Automation): ...

Under 4 meter over expectation : A Dzire Design Story

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1. Introduction :- I've always been fascinated by how certain cars manage to strike the perfect chord between design, practicality, and cultural relevance. The Maruti Suzuki Dzire is a prime example. Since its debut in 2008, Dzire has not only dominated the compact sedan segment in India but also reflected the evolving tastes of Indian consumers.    This case study explores the Dzire  design evolution, key decisions, and how the car met both aesthetic and functional goals in a challenging market. 2. Background: Indian Market Need s When we design for India, we don ’ t just design a car — we design a statement of success. The Indian buyer wants: A compact exterior for city driving, Spacious interior for family use, Fuel efficiency, An aspirational, "premium" look — especially in sedans. The Dzire was born from this specific mindset. Built initially on the Swift hatchback platform, it offered a sedan ’ s prestige with hatchback practicality . 3 . The ...

The Edsel: Ford's Million-Dollar Mistake

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Welcome to [The Edsel: Ford's Million-Dollar Mistake]! Today we're diving into a fascinating slice of history..." The Ford Edsel. The name alone conjures images of one of the biggest flops in automotive history. Launched in 1957, this car was meant to be Ford's game-changer , a vehicle so revolutionary it would redefine the American automobile and fill a perceived "gap" in their product line. Yet, it became a colossal commercial failure, costing Ford an estimated $250-$350 million . So, what exactly went wrong, and why does the Edsel's story still resonate today? The Edsel’s demise holds significant, enduring importance for both the Ford Motor Company and society at large. Importance for the Company: A Brutal Awakening .   The Edsel's failure was a harsh but invaluable lesson for Ford, underscoring the critical importance of truly understanding consumer needs and preferences.   Misreading the Market: Despite extensive market research, the company...