Volvo and Design Week: At the Volvo Studio in Milan, they truly discuss design and inspiration
Milan is not only the capital of design, but in these days it has become the thermometer of how the automotive industry is trying to redefine the concept of luxury in an ecological way. Within the walls of Volvo Studio Milano, in the technological heart of Portanuova, a meeting took place today that goes straight to the point: how does one reconcile the legacy of a historic brand with the disruptive impetus of electrification?
Cecilia Stark (Senior Design Manager Strategy) and Rekha Meena (CMF Design Manager) were there to explain. The keyword is "tension": the subtle line between the necessity of being progressive and the duty to remain authentic.
The car as a "Room": the CMF philosophy
Design is no longer just a matter of aerodynamics, but of tactile and visual sensations. Volvo is transforming the cabin into a true "Scandinavian room", an environment that must convey serenity through an interdisciplinary approach that draws heavily from fashion and furnishings. Sustainability, here, is not a green label stuck on the dashboard but the backbone of the project. The research on Color, Materials, and Finishes (CMF) becomes the main tool to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing elegance.
EX60: the manifesto of a new era
The electric SUV EX60 is the protagonist of this revolution. It is the car boasting the highest percentage of recycled materials ever achieved by the Swedish manufacturer: 27%. We're talking about regenerated fabrics, blends of wool, and wood sourced from responsibly managed forests.
The designers presented four different "atmospheres" (or rooms) defining the identity of the EX60:
- Dawn: Inspired by the first light of the northern dawn. Grey-beige tones, ash wood, and a brightness that focuses on calm.
- Rye: Here, natural wool dominates. A warm, sophisticated minimalism that brings the language of high tailor-made clothing inside the car.
- Cardamom: A brown tone inspired by earth and bark. More energetic, dedicated to those seeking a strong character and a direct connection with nature.
- Carbone: The depth of Scandinavian nights. Not just a simple black, but a play of textures and interactive design that explores luxury through darkness.
Beyond Metal
What emerges clearly from the session at Volvo Studio is that the future of electric mobility is not only based on battery range but on the ability to create spaces that respect the environment and the individual. Volvo continues to bet on discreet and conscious luxury, where nature is not just a source of aesthetic inspiration but a resource to protect through the circular economy.