Ford Pushes Interior Design Forward Testing Innovative Research Tools

Ford is working with new research and measurement methods and high-tech tools to collect emotional and logical customer insights and learn more about how people visually discover new cars and trucks. New techniques include eye tracking, measuring where eyesight lingers most, and biometrics. Research shows that a great-looking interior design can attract new buyers, but if that design isn’t thought through to accommodate different customer needs, this can be a less satisfying experience. Data collected in Ford’s experimental research is guiding the Ford design team to shape the best customer experience possible.

OneShift Editorial Team

24 Mar 2015

This is innovation in the design process as well as in the tools used. Research will happen up front, while responses to color, materials, and any other critical element will continue to be assessed through customer clinics at a later stage of the process.

Ford followed a similar approach in designing the interior of the all-new Ford GT – a two-door supercar that serves as a technology showcase for top EcoBoost performance, aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fiber construction.

First the main components of the Ford GT interior were identified, then the design was pushed forward, introducing new guiding principles and innovative design solutions.

The thinking behind the interior design of the Ford GT extends beyond the automotive world, serving an inspiration for Ford’s display at this year’s Salone del Mobile. The world’s most prestigious international furniture and design event takes place April 14-19 in Milan, Italy.

Designers across Ford’s global studios applied the new approach to the creation of unique non‑automotive objects that included a racing sailboat, musical instruments, and a football table. Just as with global design review for a vehicle, proposals were vetted by the leadership team to ensure alignment with the fundamentals, feasibility, and efficient use of resources.

Credits: Oneshift News Team