Nissan MAXIMA
interior concept to production
4DSC (4 DOOR SPORTS CAR)
As the Project Lead Interior Designer for the US market, I played a pivotal role in shaping the next-generation Maxima. Collaborating closely with product planning, engineering, and upper management, I translated product requirements into captivating interior designs. Leading the design team, I ensured adherence to ergonomic guidelines, legal regulations, and engineering feasibility, while maintaining exceptional perceived quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely execution.
THE TACTICAL CHALLENGE
-High % carryover components from another car.
-First full production program in CA, San Diego. Design Studio.
-Pilot production shortest schedule trial & working with 4 time zones.
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WHAT I WORKED ON
-Interior design concept sketch competition selected proposal.
-Senior interior design lead worked with 1 CMF, 2 interior designers.
-Production interior design execution and final release.
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THE GOAL
-Design a premium car with "A gentleman in a sports suit" inspiration.
-Best selling 4 doors sport premium sedan in the segment.
-Support the business goal of the highest profit per vehicle in the US market.
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DESIGN WORK FLOW
2011 2012 2013 2014
SELECTED INTERIOR DESIGN SKETCH PROPOSAL
CHOSEN DESIGN CKETCH
IDEATION DESIGN STAGE / Fighter jet cockpit inspired
Searching for the right ideas that express sporty driving experience inspired by fighter jet cockpit. Sporty is just the basic, the mixing with premium leather, stitches & Alcantara suede created the authentic exotic car look & feel. The final touch is the stitch line defining the craftsmanship & forms.
INTERIOR DESIGN WITH PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS
DESIGN DIRECTION DECISION
DESIGN WITHIN MARKET REQUIREMENTS
This is where the design really integrates what the customers voiced to us in 3D space also where engineering team starts to dive-in, not only making sure the safety & regulations are within the guidelines but also how to make these innovations that create positive experiences.
50% PRODUCTION FEASIBILITY DESIGN + PROTOTYPE
50% PRODUCTION FEASIBILITY DESIGN + PROTOTYPE
PRE PRODUCTION DESIGN PHASE
DIRECTION PROTOTYPE MODEL
PRODUCTION DESIGN
DESIGN CONFIRMATION
To make sure the refined design sketches are checked with the 3D CAD, every design intention has to be in line with the market expectation & engineering manufacturing feasibility. Most importantly, cost factor and product requirements are also met without compromising the design.
PRODUCTION DESIGN SAMPLE WORKS
Nissan Maxima (better UX IT commander)
Infiniti Q50
FINAL PRODUCTION INTERIOR DESIGN
AUTOSHOW LAUNCH IN NY 2015
4 DOORS SPORTS CAR INTERIOR
LIGHT LOWER EXPRESSES SPACIOUS
FIGHTER JET COCKPIT INSPIRED
SOFT LEATHER CENTER CONSOLE
PREMIUM & SPORTY MATERIALS
LEATHER FLOATING METER HOOD
PIANO BLACK + SATIN SILVER
ACCENT STITCH + LEATHER GRAIN
FACETED ZEBRANO WOOD FIN
PERFORATED ALCANTARA SUEDE
MARKETING PRODUCTION LAUNCH
Helping the Product Marketing team to kick off. The design team created an internal PR campaign materials so that the design inspirations and intentions are cascaded across key product launch events.
Annual sale volume with direct competitor (source: carsalesbase.com)
Toyota Avalon Nissan Maxima
2018 33.580 42.337
2017 32.573 67.627
2016 48.079 62.670
2015 60.063 40.359
