A glimpse at the automotive world of tomorrow

The German Design Award sets international standards when it comes to innovative design developments. It exclusively honours projects that are pioneering in the German and international design landscape. This is ensured by an international jury, which gathers leading heads from all disciplines of design.

Design experts justified their decision as follows: "The concept combines all relevant vehicle areas - exterior and interior - into a progressive design that convinces in form and function right down to the last detail and thus provides a fascinating glimpse of the automotive world of tomorrow."

"AKXY perfectly combines organic curves with inorganic straight lines," explained Michitaka Udaka, Head of Automotive Marketing at Asahi Kasei, about the design philosophy. "I am delighted that this design, which embodies our ideal for the future of safety, comfort and environmental performance in the automobile, has received such prestigious recognition."

Moreover, futuristic design would not be a contradiction to harmony with the environment, Udaka further said, and it would also offer an invitation to feel good. Components people have direct contact with would be characterised by elegant shapes and soft and warm materials.

Since its debut in Japan in May 2017, AKXY has been exhibited at trade shows, roadshows and customer events worldwide. Wherever it appears, the 'rolling competence centre' stimulates discussions with experts from the automotive industry about the future of the automobile and the solutions AKXY offers.

Hideki Tsutsumi, Managing Director of Asahi Kasei Europe, added: "In September 2018, AKXY delighted more than 200 customers and journalists at our Business Forum in Düsseldorf. I am proud of this pioneering vehicle and the achievements of our designers and engineers."

Asahi Kasei will present AKXY for the first time at this year's electronica trade fair in Hall B4, Stand 516.