LA Auto Show Design Challenge theme: 'Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?'

The Los Angeles Auto Show has confirmed the theme for its annual Design Challenge. This year marks the eleventh time the contest has been held, and eight global design studios will each produce a concept to showcase a connected vehicle or interface system in response to the theme: 'Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?'

The show's organizers have confirmed that BMW Group DesignworksUSA, Honda USA, Honda Japan, McLaren Automotive, Nissan, Peterbilt Motors, Qoros Auto, and SAIC Motor MG will all take part.

"Los Angeles is one of the world's most dynamic cities constantly keeping its eye on the future of technological advancements that largely affect our daily lives," said Lisa Kaz, President of the LA Auto Show. "This makes this year's theme of the human reliance on machines especially fitting, as it continues to connect to our senses, feelings and patterns with our cars."

Entries will be judged on the following factors: comfort, attention to human sense and emotional connection, ecological sensitivity, creativity of concept, control and function of concept and reflection of the brand.

The panel of judges includes Tom Matano, executive director of the School of Industrial Design at Academy of Art University; Stewart Reed, chair of Transportation Design at the Art Center; and Alexander Klatt, chair of MFA Transportation Design at CCS.

The winning design studio will be selected during the Design LA Open House on Thursday 20 November. That evening, Car Design News will host Car Design Night LA 14, which design industry professionals can register to attend.

By Tom Phillips