Car Design Dialogues Detroit 2026 Agenda

As vehicles become more intelligent, how do designers ensure technology enhances rather than overwhelms? A discussion on clarity, control and crafting intuitive digital-physical harmony. As AI, automation and connected experiences reshape the cabin, how can designers build trust, simplify complexity and create products that adapt to people, rather than forcing people to adapt to technology?

This interactive session from Continental SSL is designed to show how we can be a true extension of your design team—bringing forward the unique value of our materials and the capabilities behind them. We’ll explore how embracing the inherent durability, flexibility, and character of our materials can unlock new design possibilities while supporting real-world performance.

Beyond materials, our trend-driven pitches and prototype collections across grains, textures, and prints are built to deliver both inspiration and ready-to-implement solutions. Ultimately, this workshop is about demonstrating how we can help you design with greater confidence, speed, and differentiation.

A forward-looking conversation on next-generation materials, responsible sourcing and how designers are embedding circular thinking without losing luxury, performance or appeal. 

The automotive design studio is entering a new era. One where AI is no longer a standalone experiment, but an integrated part of the creative workflow. Autodesk and Darkline will explore how AI can accelerate the journey from early concept through 3D development, materials, visualization, and motion while keeping designers at the center of the process. Through connected Autodesk workflows and Darkline FRAME, this session will demonstrate how emerging AI tools can reduce friction between ideas and execution, giving creative teams more freedom to explore, iterate, and communicate at the speed of thought.

How architecture, fashion, technology and digital culture are influencing automotive thinking across studios in the Americas.

A conversation on what it really takes to turn a special-edition concept into a road-going vehicle - from first sketch through engineering, homologation and production.

Using real project examples and archive material, the discussion will explore the challenges behind limited series and one-off programmes, and how OEM design teams can work with external partners while retaining ownership of the design.

A conversation between Italdesign and CDN, not a lecture - with plenty of opportunity for questions from the room.