Transport elite gather to open NTDC

9th June 2017

Anna Flockett

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Officially opening for the first time, Coventry University’s National Transport Design Centre (NTDC) saw over two hundred leading automotive, rail, marine and aerospace designers attending the event. The opening event, which took place 25^th May, introduced the centre, which covers all aspects of transport design; the NTDC brings together students, designers and manufacturers to advance the concept-to-production process of class-leading design.

Established to explore and refine new design concepts, the £7m facility is fully equipped with the latest design technology. Complete with a six-metre interactive power wall, which offers virtual reality concept examination, clay-milling facilities to create three-dimensional models and a projection mapping system that casts digital images on to three-dimensional objects, the NTDC is equipped for future design solutions.

Attending the prestigious event were esteemed alumni such as Ian Callum, Jaguar’s director of design. At the launch, he unveiled his mural, ‘Movement’, that has been especially designed for the facility. The famous designer was also awarded a Visiting Professorship by Coventry University.

Speaking of the NTDC, Ian Callum said: “As a country, we are experiencing a skills shortage when it comes to people qualified in transport design and engineering. The UK needs to invest more, and it is exciting to see projects like the NTDC gain traction. I’m proud to be involved and I’m looking forward to working with the next generation of world-class vehicle designers right here in Coventry – the home of Jaguar.”

David Wright, Coventry University’s director of strategic initiatives, is responsible for the execution of the project.

He commented: “The NTDC’s opening will have a positive impact not only on the University, but also for Coventry. There is a wealth of design, engineering and manufacturing expertise surrounding us in the Midlands and the NTDC brings those elements together but brings into the mix an academic research component maintaining Coventry’s leading position when it comes to transport design.”

Racing driver and TV presenter, Jodie Kidd, was also at the launch, assisting Ian with the revel of the mural. Speaking about the centre, Jodie was positive about the importance it would play in the future of transport design.

She said: “This is such an impressive facility and I’m thrilled to see the quality of the research that is being conducted here. To have this technology and resource available will be a massive asset to Coventry University and it’s exciting to be standing where many future transport solutions will originate.”