It's North America's only event focused on the automotive interior. FULL REGISTRATION TO THE EVENT IS SOLD OUT. But you can register for a limited-access pass that gets you into the panel sessions, exhibits and networking reception. Register for a limited-access pass now! If you're involved in vehicle interiors, you MUST attend this one-day conference laser-focused on topics vital to your company's future. Keynote addresses from top executives in design, such as Ford's Director of Global Interior Design Strategy, Amko Leenarts. Panel discussions covering integral subjects including Connectivity, HMI, Lighting, Materials, Luxury, and more, with heavy-hitting speakers from OEMs and top suppliers. Design awards presented in ceremonies for the Ward's 10 Best Interiors (check out the winning vehicles in our conference ballroom!) and our annual Student Design Competition with CCS (sponsored by IAC and Lear). Exhibits and networking, giving you a chance to meet with colleagues with unique insights on your current and future programs, and suppliers offering innovative products and services on display. LIMITED-ACCESS REGISTRATION: $285 (includes panels, exhibits, networking reception) SPONSORSHIPS/EXHIBITS: Contact Us for availability. QUESTIONS: Contact Chris Lamphear at 248-799-2658 or clamphear@wardsauto.com

LOCATION:

The Henry Hotel
300 Town Center Drive
Dearborn, Michigan 48126
 

AGENDA:

7:30 to 8:15 am- Registration / Breakfast / Networking

8:15 to 9:30 am - Breakout Sessions in the Johnson Controls meeting rooms

Panel 1:
Perfecting the HMI
Since the debut of the BMW iDrive, the modern Human Machine Interface has both amazed and confounded consumers. After more than a decade of development, the HMI is better than ever, but still a source of customer dissatisfaction. Panelists will discuss what can be done to truly meet consumer wants and needs.
See Synopsis and Panelists

Panel 2:
Comfort and Aesthetics
New materials, processes and technologies that enhance comfort and convenience for consumers and help designers create more aesthetically pleasing interiors.
See Synopsis and Panelists

Panel 3:
Designing with Light
Ambient lighting now is one of the most important instruments in the designer’s toolbox. How else can it be used to surprise and delight consumers?
See Synopsis and Panelists

9:45 to 10:30 am - Keynote Speaker on the IAC Center Stage

Amko Leenarts,
Director, Global Interior Design Strategy, Ford Motor Co.

10:30 am to 11:00 am - Networking Break sponsored by WJR

11:00 am to 12:15 pm - Breakout Sessions in the Johnson Controls meeting rooms

Panel 4:
Innovative Materials
An in-depth look at the latest materials and processes that are transforming vehicle interiors.
See Synopsis and Panelists

Panel 5:
Using Connectivity to Find Happiness
Connectivity is fundamentally changing the way vehicles and drivers interact with the outside world.  This session will explore the role the vehicle interior and its systems can play in enhancing and simplifying people's lives both inside and outside the vehicle.
See Synopsis and Panelists

Panel 6:
Thinking Outside the Box
What can the auto industry learn from other industries? What ideas can designers adapt from the environment and other cultures to make better interiors? How will new technologies such as autonomous vehicles change interior design?
See Synopsis and Panelists

12:30 to 1:15 pm - Plated Lunch sponsored by Henkel

1:15 to 1:30 pm - WardsAuto Interiors Student Design Competition, sponsored by IAC and Lear, on the IAC Center Stage

1:30 to 2:15 pm - Ward's 10 Best Interiors Awards on the IAC Center Stage

2:15 to 2:45 pm - Networking Break sponsored by WJR

2:45 to 3:30 pm - Keynote Speaker on the IAC Center Stage

3:45 to 5:00 pm - Breakout Sessions in the Johnson Controls meeting rooms

Panel 7:
Fuel-Efficient Interiors
Interiors will play a crucial role in reducing weight and creating more space in smaller vehicles to help auto makers meet future corporate average fuel-economy targets. This session will look at the latest concepts in design and materials.
See Synopsis and Panelists

Panel 8:
The Future of Luxury
With traditional luxury cues moving into mainstream vehicles, creating a premium ambience that is truly original and authentic becomes harder every year. What avenues are left to explore? Where is luxury headed in the future?
See Synopsis and Panelists

5:00 to 6:00 pm - Networking Reception sponsored by Magna