CDE Podcast

Eduardo Ramírez, Head of Hyundai Design Europe, joins the CDE Podcast to talk about careers in automotive design, customer-centric creativity, and why “fun” and experimentation still matter—especially in an industry being reshaped by electrification. In this episode, Eduardo traces his journey from the Canary Islands and motorsport culture to studying transportation design at Coventry University and the Royal College of Art. He explains why sketching remains essential, how Hyundai’s European studio balances bold design with real customer needs, and what it means to “not fall in love too soon” with an idea. We also dive into Hyundai’s flexibility as a brand, the Instaroid project as a catalyst for internal creativity, and the challenge of designing across EV, hybrid, and hydrogen platforms—plus Eduardo’s key advice for young designers entering the industry. Topics covered: • Breaking into automotive design (education, sketching, mindset) • Customer-centric design and understanding latent needs • Hyundai’s design culture in Europe: boldness and flexibility • Instaroid and the value of playful internal projects • Designing across EV, hybrid, and hydrogen technologies • Advice for young designers: keep learning and enjoy the work Guest: Eduardo Ramírez — Head of Hyundai Design Europe Links & Resources: Car Design Event (CDE): https://cardesignevent.com/ Listen to the podcast: https://cde-podcast.podigee.io/ Follow CDE for updates and upcoming conversations with leading voices in automotive design.

Tisha Johnson (Slate, ex-Volvo) joins the CDE Podcast to talk about designing a radically affordable car—and why simplicity, usefulness, and real-world constraints can still lead to something genuinely desirable. In this episode, Tisha traces her passion for automotive design back to childhood in Southern California, reflects on what shaped her approach during her time at Volvo, and explains Slate’s “blank slate” concept: one simple base vehicle, made easier to manufacture, that customers can personalize themselves. Tisha also shares practical advice for young designers—why exploring broadly, expanding your visual vocabulary, and staying open-minded about your career path can make all the difference. Topics covered: • Designing radically affordable mobility • Essentialism: simplicity without losing desirability • Personalization at scale (“blank slate” concept) • Simplifying manufacturing and reducing complexity • Career advice for aspiring designers Guest: Tisha Johnson — Slate (ex-Volvo) Links & Resources: Car Design Event (CDE): [https://cardesignevent.com/](https://cardesignevent.com/) Listen to the podcast: [https://cde-podcast.podigee.io/](https://cde-podcast.podigee.io/) Follow CDE for updates and upcoming conversations with leading voices in automotive design.

Phil Zak, Executive Design Director, Global Chevrolet, joins the CDE Podcast for a deep dive into automotive design careers, creative decision-making, and the evolution of one of the industry's most iconic nameplates: Corvette. In this episode, Phil shares what it actually takes to become an automotive designer—the difference between the US and the european car market and the skills that matter most. Plus: a deep dive into Corvette, past projects, and where car design is heading next. Phil reflects on key moments from his career, lessons learned from past projects, and the broader shifts shaping the future of car design. Topics covered: • Becoming an automotive designer • Portfolio & hiring insights • Corvette design philosophy • Past projects & career lessons • The future of mobility and design Guest: Phil Zak — Executive Design Director, Global Chevrolet at General Motors Links & Resources: Car Design Event (CDE): https://cardesignevent.com/ Follow CDE for updates and upcoming conversations with leading voices in automotive design.

Stay tuned!