Car Design Dialogues Detroit 2026 Agenda

16:00

Workshop - Rethinking Automotive Materials

Led by Bridge of Weir Leather, this interactive session explores the future of sustainable automotive interiors. From responsible sourcing and material evolution to circular design and new cross-sector innovations, the workshop invites participants to engage directly with tactile samples and a showcase of collaborative seating concepts. An open dialogue with experts will encourage discussion on transparency, collaboration and the next generation of interior materials.

Danielle Momany Danielle Momany director of new business development
Piston Interiors
Simon Cook Simon Cook strategic technical director
Bridge of Weir
16:45

16:45 – Workshop - Glass as a CMF Design Medium

An interactive session led by Sekisui on the role of laminated glass in automotive design and its evolution from technical solution to design-defining element. Participants will explore the creative potential of laminated glass, engage directly with glass and interlayer materials, and discuss how new applications could shape the future of mobility design.

Libby Holt Libby Holt assistant manager of marketing
SEKISUI S-LEC
Dylan Sanders Dylan Sanders senior marketing & design engineer
SEKISUI S-LEC
16:45

16:45 – Workshop - Halo Vehicles, Special Editions & Limited-Run Upfitting Programs - Navigating Challenges, Delivering Solutions

Join Michigan-based Prefix Corporation for an immersive and insightful discussion on the art and complexity of bringing special edition vehicles to life. From halo models to bespoke upfitting programs, these high-impact designs generate buzz, elevate brand visibility, and ignite customer passion—but they also present unique production challenges that diverge sharply from traditional manufacturing workflows.

In this session, the Prefix team will share real-world experiences and proven strategies for overcoming these hurdles. Learn how they’ve engineered systems and processes to streamline development, maintain quality, and ensure that bold, attention-grabbing concepts make it from sketchpad to showroom. Whether you're a brand leader, engineer, or enthusiast, discover how innovation and agility can keep one-of-a-kind vehicles within reach for those who crave something truly distinctive.

Eric Zeile Eric Zeile president/CEO
Prefix
Jhan Dolphin Jhan Dolphin vice president of business development/marketing
Prefix
Lindsey Patrick Lindsey Patrick director of product development
Prefix
17:30

Networking & Welcome Drinks

Following the workshop, guests gather for drinks and informal conversation ahead of the evening programme. 

18:00

18:00 – Evening Programme - Car Design Dialogues

An evening of curated discussions exploring the future of American car design. From the rise of electric startups and shifting definitions of luxury, to the power of sketching and global influences shaping local design. 

18:00

18:00 – Presentation: Brand Reset

Jennifer Kolstad explores how Ford is reimagining its brand beyond product design alone, balancing a rich heritage with bold new directions. Her quickfire talk examines how spaces, experiences and storytelling can reset perceptions and position a legacy brand for the future.

Jennifer Kolstad Jennifer Kolstad global design & brand director
Ford Motor Company
James McLachlan James McLachlan moderator
editor-in-chief
Car Design News
18:10

Panel Discussion – Design Without Borders: Global Minds, American Identity

In an increasingly global design ecosystem, how are international creative leaders shaping the future of US automotive design? A conversation about cultural influence, form language, and how to think globally while designing locally. 
 

Nicholas David Nicholas David vice president of global design
Karma Automotive
Jennifer Kolstad Jennifer Kolstad global design & brand director
Ford Motor Company
Joaquin Garcia Joaquin Garcia head of design
Italdesign
David Marek David Marek executive creative director
Honda
Chris Benjamin Chris Benjamin chief design officer
Scout Motors
James McLachlan James McLachlan moderator
editor-in-chief
Car Design News
18:40

RPM Session – Part I

Fast, ten-minute talks bringing the energy of car culture into design dialogue. Speakers deliver quick-fire perspectives on the ideas shaping American car design – from sketching and education to nostalgia, storytelling and the future of performance.

Tisha Johnson Tisha Johnson head of design
Slate
James McLachlan James McLachlan moderator
editor-in-chief
Car Design News
18:50

Panel Discussion – What is American Luxury?

As materials, UX, and electrification evolve, what defines premium American design today? This panel explores how bold identity, emotional interiors and cutting-edge tech are shaping a new era for American luxury.  

Erin Crossley Erin Crossley design director cadillac celestiq
General Motors
Ryan Niemiec Ryan Niemiec interior design chief
Lincoln
Irina Zavatski Irina Zavatski vice president - Chrysler brand exterior design
Stellantis
Zulf Ali Zulf Ali senior director of interior design
Rivian
Nicola Danks Nicola Danks colour and materials design director
Lucid Motors
James McLachlan James McLachlan moderator
editor-in-chief
Car Design News
19:30

Panel Discussion – American Muscle

From Mustang to Camaro to Challenger, muscle cars have long defined American performance and identity. As new tech reshape what power means, how are designers balancing heritage with reinvention? This conversation explores the evolution of iconic models, the emotional connection they carry, and the design choices that keep American muscle relevant for a new generation of drivers.

Phil Zak Phil Zak executive design director, global chevrolet
General Motors
Mark Trostle Mark Trostle vice president - Ram Truck, Mopar and SRT design
Stellantis
Kemal Curic Kemal Curic global design director, performance vehicles
Ford Motor Company
Freddie Holmes Freddie Holmes moderator
deputy editor
Car Design News
20:00

Drinks reception

Following the evening’s discussions, guests are invited to continue the conversation over drinks. This relaxed reception brings together designers, industry professionals and creative leaders for an informal close to the day, offering space for networking, inspiration and new connections.  

20:00-22:00