Frequently Asked Questions

Michelin Challenge Design for 2014

Q. What is Michelin Challenge Design?
A. Michelin Challenge Design is a collection of events and activities reflecting Michelin North America’s interest in and commitment to innovative design.
Q. What are some examples of Michelin’s commitment to design?
A. Here in North America, Michelin supports the College for Creative Studies Design Competition; Michelin Challenge Design and the cardesignnews.com website in addition to other events and programs.
Q. Why is design important?
A. Design is central to the process of innovation. Design influences the marketplace.
Q. Why does Michelin care about design?
A. Michelin wants to assist in the evolution of transportation. Michelin’s corporate culture places a high value on design and innovation as important to consumer satisfaction and maintaining Michelin’s role as the industry leader.
Q. What was the theme for the 2015 Michelin Challenge Design?
A. Drive Your Passion
Engaging Senses, Soul and Emotion

In the year 2030, at a time in which city driving is done autonomously due to high urban density, “driving for pleasure” adventures will be found outside the cities. Michelin is looking to recognize simple and sustainable vehicle designs best suited for your chosen adventure on an iconic road that would exhibit pure driving pleasure. Designs should offer unique features to engage your senses, soul and emotion.

This year’s challenge:

  • Choose an Iconic Road such as Khardung Pass (India), Highway 1 or Rubicon Trail (California), Ruta 40 (Argentina), Stelvio Pass (Italy), Karakoram Highway (China), or any iconic road familiar to you.
  • Visually communicate the passion and emotion of your vehicle design.
  • Explain how your design engages the senses and embodies the performance that are vital to fully experience the character of your chosen road or environment.


Michelin Challenge Design will recognize exciting and passionate designs that employ innovative vehicle architecture and technologies, without compromising functionality, safety or comfort. The vehicle’s capabilities must include dimensional specifications and visual detail of the tire/wheel assembly.

Q. Who is eligible?
A. Transportation designers, including OEM and suppliers, studio designers, consultants, design schools, students and individual designers. (For more information, please see Rules & Procedures)
Q. How do I enter the Michelin Challenge Design?
A. Information is available on the Michelin Challenge Design web site at www.michelinchallengedesign.com.
Q. Who decides what is displayed at the Michelin Challenge Design-NAIAS?
A. A panel of international design professionals and teachers.
Q. Does Michelin ever get involved directly in vehicle design projects?
A. Michelin supplies concept tires for many of the OEM concept and show vehicles introduced each year. Michelin periodically partners with design studios in the creation of specific concept vehicles.
Q. Will Michelin provide financial support to entrants of the Michelin Challenge Design-NAIAS?
A. Michelin does not provide financial support to entries in the Michelin Challenge Design.
Q. Who can I contact if I have questions or need assistance?
A. Contact information is available at www.michelinchallengedesign.com or contact us via email at design@emcpr.com.