Hyundai Motor has unveiled the 'Le Fil Rouge' concept car at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show, marking a new beginning for Hyundai design and providing a glimpse of its future design direction. As its name implies, 'Le Fil Rouge' (English translation: common thread) is a reflection of Hyundai's belief that the brand's past, present and future designs are all connected.
The goal of this new theme is to bring instinctive beauty, creating emotional value and desirability in Hyundai vehicles. The design mission is defined by the harmony between four fundamental elements: Proportion, architecture, styling and technology.
Proportion
'Le Fil Rouge' creates a proportional character based on the golden-ratio - a common mathematical ratio found in nature - which enabled Hyundai designers to create an aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking composition that embodies charisma. Proportional uniqueness is achieved through a long wheel base, large wheels and short overhangs.
Architecture
With 'Le Fil Rouge', Hyundai took a new approach called 'Light Architecture', to integrate a progressive identity into the brand's design heritage. Light Architecture generates a dynamic look and forward motion effect for the vehicle. The front and the rear pillars as well as the roof are seamlessly blended into the overarching silhouette of the car - as though the car is drawn with a single line.
Styling
Another goal of the team was to create a vehicle that is instantly recognisable as a Hyundai from a distance. This was achieved by creating a sensuous tension on the side through a harmonious blend of layered crisp lines and pure volumes. Concave and convex forms are carefully orchestrated to provide a sexy character.
Technology
A core design principle for Hyundai designers was to create a design that enables a seamless experience of function. Inspired by aircraft ventilation, a two-way air ventilation system blows air over the curved surface of lightweight tube architecture. Revitalised wood and high-tech fabrics are used extensively throughout and sculpted into exquisite, sensuous forms.
