Shown of at the North American International Auto Show this week was the Ford's expressive, dynamic new concept car, the Verve.
Ford says they want the Verve to be a stylish, hip car. The subcompact is even smaller than Ford's Focus, which is why they've dubbed it a B-Car.
The were really committed to the car's aesthetics; in fact, the designers say it was inspired by current international fashion trends. They hope it will become an iconic, emotional product which is why they've loaded it with innovative details and unique architecture, to make it not only functional for today's wired society, but also to act as a symbol of hip sophistication.
"Intriguing visual touches include control buttons that look like a mobile phone's keypad and climate-control dials inspired by the handles of luxury showers," the Free Press said.
"Despite its SUV looks, the concept has sliding rear doors to provide minivan-like access to the rear seats."
Watch the video for a more in depth look, laden with thick German accents.
Stylish Subcompact Car
Ford Verve (NAIAS 2008)
Trend Themes
1. Stylish Subcompact Cars - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop subcompact cars that are designed with aesthetics inspired by current fashion trends.
2. Iconic, Emotional Products - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create products with innovative details and unique architecture to become symbols of hip sophistication.
3. Functional Vehicles for Wired Society - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design vehicles that are not only functional for today's connected society but also incorporate elements inspired by luxury and technology.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new designs and features for subcompact cars to appeal to style-conscious consumers.
2. Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborate with automotive companies to inspire car designs with current international fashion trends.
3. Luxury Home Accessories - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Apply luxury home accessories' innovative details and unique architecture to car interior designs.