Introduction:
The annual Stellantis Drive for Design contest provides high school students with the opportunity to showcase their creativity in automotive design and win exciting prizes. Winners not only receive top-of-the-line gear like the Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16 but also have the chance to secure summer internships in one of Stellantis’ design studios. In recent years, the contest has seen impressive talent, with repeat winners like Rocco Morales and potential future stars like Rohan Sieber emerging from the competition. This year, Sieber claimed first place with his innovative Lancia Zero concept, showcasing the legacy of Lancia’s radical design and performance. Let’s delve into the details of the 2024 Drive for Design contest winners and their impressive creations.
1. Rohan Sieber’s Winning Concept: Lancia Zero
Sieber, a junior from Portola, California, impressed judges with his Lancia Zero concept, an electric sports car inspired by Lancia’s history of bold design and exceptional performance. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Stratos HF Zero, Sieber’s design aims to push the boundaries of automotive innovation. With his victory, Sieber has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of previous winners and establish himself as a promising talent in the automotive design field.
2. Ryan Panizzoli’s Second-Place Entry
Sophomore Ryan Panizzoli from Plymouth, Michigan secured second place with his unique Lancia concept. While details about his design are limited, a slide-out cooking station in the rear adds an interesting twist to the traditional sports car concept. Panizzoli’s innovative approach caught the attention of judges, earning him a well-deserved spot among the top contenders in the competition.
3. Owen Bronson’s Third-Place Concept: Lancia Pugnale
Taking third place in the competition, Owen Bronson from Canton, Michigan presented his Lancia Pugnale concept, a modern reinterpretation of the classic 1970 Lancia Stratos Zero HF Concept. Drawing inspiration from Lancia’s rich heritage, Bronson’s design incorporates key elements from the original concept while adding contemporary touches. His attention to detail and homage to Lancia’s iconic styling earned him recognition and accolades from the judging panel.
4. Prizes and Opportunities for the Winners
In addition to receiving top-tier design tools like the Apple iPad Pro and Apple Pencil, the second and third-place finishers have the chance to network with the Stellantis Design Team and secure scholarships for a summer program at Detroit’s College for Creative Studies. Furthermore, as Michigan locals, they will have the opportunity to participate as Student Judges at prestigious automotive events like the EyesOn Design at Ford House car show. These opportunities not only reward the winners for their outstanding creativity but also provide valuable experiences and insights into the world of automotive design.
5. Celebrating the Future of Automotive Design
The 2024 Drive for Design contest winners represent the future of automotive design, showcasing creativity, innovation, and a deep appreciation for automotive heritage. As these talented students continue to hone their skills and pursue their passion for design, the automotive industry can look forward to a new generation of visionaries shaping the vehicles of tomorrow. With competitions like Drive for Design fostering creativity and talent, the possibilities for the future of automotive design are endless.