“XPLORE” THE FUTURE OF WEST COAST DESIGN

In the world of auto design there’s always something new. However, creating novel ideas and concepts doesn’t happen on its own, like spontaneous combustion. It’s a result of exploration and discovery, and plenty of hard work.

XPOLRE, presented by AutoDesignO and the Motor Press Guild, provides members and guests a glimpse into the future. XPLORE uncovers the thinking behind great designs. Impressive displays from participating Southern California companies showcase new products and services, ranging from cars to technology.

©2015 Äremis Studios. All Rights Reserved. Rezvani Beast and Charmaine Joie Couture fashion at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

The invitation-only event held at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club also provides a rare look at the talent, inspirations, and innovations found on the West Coast. XPLORE, held on September 1, 2015, allows the attendees to see first-hand some of the latest industry developments.

For over a half-century, automotive products have been flaunting expressive designs that reflect the West Coast lifestyle. But, the changes that are currently afoot are nothing less than incredible.

John Grafman, Executive Director of AutoDesignO, states, “XPLORE is a chance for those in the automotive media and design professionals to interact with West Coast influences in a welcoming, Newport Beach bayside setting. This region of the world is a breeding ground for new talent and technology, and this is why we are here today.”

Featured speakers  Julien Montousse – Design Manager of Mazda R&D North America (and now Design Director of Mazda NA effective 9/8/2015); Philip Lunn – Founder and CEO of Nurulize; and Bill Barranco – Director of Autovision RCD, are standout figures in the future of automotive design. Each featured speaker is enlightening the guests with their perspectives on designing successfully for today and tomorrow. The thought provoking interviews are lead by Eric Noble of The CARLAB, and Chris Woodyard – Bureau Chief and Reporter of USA Today.

©2015 Äremis Studios. All Rights Reserved. Riva Rivarama from Ferretti Group and Rezvani Beast and Charmaine Joie Couture fashion at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

As most everyone with a pulse knows, Mazda is currently undergoing a change at its Irvine, CA design studio. Julien Montousse is a big part of this transformation. Julien shares his thoughts based on his global experiences in France, Japan and now here in America. His insight on the development of the new Miata and other projects provides XPLORE guests a peek at what makes Mazda unique.

Featured Sponsor Nurulize demonstrates state-of-the-art virtual reality simulations of digital designs and scans. This technology from Nurulize employs the Oculus Rift VR headsets, which allows creative digital designers to experience their work with amazingly life-like results. This will in turn will be expediting the auto design process, and making it more affordable than ever before. While there are indeed other products on the market, this kicks it up a notch or two.

The ability to walk around the demo with a McLaren is fairly convincing. The details and smoothness of images is impressive. Also, the syncing of operator actions with the images doesn’t lead to a feeling of seasickness. There are many features that are incorporated that designers will enjoy.

Bill Barranco, Director of Autovision RCD, reveals that the industry is moving in new directions, not just in design, but also in location. His extensive background in executive recruitment for the auto design industry allows him a view that very few ever see. Barranco explains that many automotive companies are placing much greater emphasis, both in design and technology, in the Silicon Valley. This shift might fundamentally change the automobile, as we know it. We are beginning to see ongoing examples of this with each passing month.

©2015 Äremis Studios. All Rights Reserved. Rezvani Beast at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

The evolution of design requires new influences to trigger change. XPLORE provides those in the form of fashion and watercraft, as well as inspiring cars. All of these various types of companies share common turf in California, and as a result stimulate each other.

Products found at XPLORE include the new Mazda MX-5 Miata, CX-3, and Mazda 6 Ceramic Concept created for the SEMA Show. These are representative of Mazda’s KODO design theme.

Additionally, attendees are thrilled by the Ferretti Group’s sleek 44’ Riva Rivarama motorboat. This model is one of several brands found under the Ferretti label.

Statuesque models punctuate an impressive collection of fashions from Charmaine Joie Couture. The elegant collection is created by Charmaine J. Rodriguez, and fits in perfectly dockside at the yacht club.

photo credit – John Grafman. Mazda MX-5 Miata at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

Rezvani Motors’ dazzles the guests with its bold, sports car – the Beast, which is built locally in Orange County, CA. The Rezvani is pushing the envelope on both performance and style. While the underpinnings are related to the Arial Atom, the motor and bodywork set this apart from its European cousin.

In-Kind sponsors included Mothers Polish, providing samples of its more popular products for attendees. Graphic design support comes from Shlomo Fattal of the Sketch Farm, along with the unique seating of the Auttoman. The CARLAB graciously assists in logistics and moderation.

A video of the interview with Julien Montousse / Mazda from XPLORE is available at – https://youtu.be/lWuK2LhWzg0
A video of the interview with Philip Lunn / Nurulize from XPLORE is available at – https://youtu.be/rqrsY4ACBYU
A video of the interview with Bill Barranco / Autovision RCD from XPLORE is available at – https://youtu.be/L10Q7lJUq6I

photo credit - © 2015 Jan Wagner / AutoMatters & More. All Rights Reserved. Docks at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club

Images are courtesy of Michael and Jereé Seeley of Äremis Studios, and Jan Wagner of AutoMatters & More. And lastly, A/V resources and live streaming are courtesy of Take Two TV.