Rediscovering the Legend: An Interview with Amko Leenarts on the 2024 All-Electric Ford Capri
Ah, the Ford Capri! A name that sends shivers down the spines of car enthusiasts worldwide. A car so iconic that it needs no introduction.
But here we are, in 2024, and Ford has decided to give us a fresh take on this cult classic – an all-electric version that promises to blend nostalgia with modernity.
Our friends from Automotive Design Planet had the chance to sit down with Amko Leenarts, Ford Europe’s Design Director, to chat about this electrifying new ride.
Spoiler alert: It’s a conversation filled with excitement, design secrets, and a healthy dose of humor!
Reviving a Legend: The 2024 Ford Capri Goes Electric
So, Ford has decided to bring back the Capri, and not just any Capri, but an all-electric one! Automotive Design Planet caught up with Amko Leenarts, Ford Europe’s Design Director, to get the lowdown on how they turned this classic into a futuristic marvel.
It’s sleek, stylish, and packed with tech. Let’s dive into this spicy chat with Amko and find out how they breathed new life into this cult classic.
Designing the New Capri
Q: Hi Amko! It’s not every day you get to redesign an icon. Can you highlight specific design cues that have been carried over in the new Ford Capri?
A: Hey there! Absolutely, it’s been a wild ride. The Capri is part of our ‘Hero Nameplates’ strategy, where we aim to create unique vehicles that stand out from the crowd. Think Mustang, Bronco, and now, the Capri.
We didn’t want to make a retro car; instead, we aimed for a modern interpretation. Imagine if the Capri had evolved every decade since 1986.
We’ve kept the iconic coupe silhouette but added a modern twist with sculpted lines and bold graphics, like the distinctive ‘Capri Swoosh’ on the side windows. And, of course, it sits about 10 cm higher than a Tesla Model 3 – because, why not?
The Soulful Coupe SUV: Design Philosophy Unwrapped
Q: The new Capri is described as having a “soulful coupe SUV design with a distinctive silhouette.” Can you explain the design philosophy behind this?
A: Sure thing! We wanted the new Capri to have a strong presence while still feeling approachable. The body has these sculpted lines that give it a muscular stance.
The front features a visor-like effect with the A-pillar, creating this cool blend of openness and solidity. The twin headlamps have been reimagined with a bold dog-bone graphic, making them stand out.
We’ve got a substantial body-colored area at the front to highlight its EV nature, and at the rear, we mirrored the front’s design language for a cohesive look.
And, of course, we couldn’t resist adding the Capri lettering behind the glass as a nod to the original.
Targeting the Aspirers: Fans of Muscle and EV Enthusiasts Unite
Q: So, it’s fair to say you’re targeting both fans of American muscle and a new generation of EV enthusiasts?
A: Exactly! We’re focusing on the ‘Aspirer’ mindset – those who are early adopters of tech, willing to pay for it, and are generally optimistic about the future.
Our research showed that customers are enthusiastic about a coupe or sedan silhouette that sits a bit higher, providing a sense of safety and visibility. It’s not just about style; it’s about practicality and comfort for a broad audience.
Inside the Capri: Human-Centric Design at Its Best
Q: You mentioned the interior of the Capri is very human-centric. Can you elaborate?
A: Absolutely. The Capri’s interior is all about comfort and functionality. We’ve designed it to feel exceptionally light and spacious. Around the knees, it’s slightly narrower for comfort, while the shoulder area is wider, promoting a sense of safety.
The dashboard emphasizes width to create a perception of spaciousness.
We introduced a feature called ‘my private locker’ – a lockable space with USB slots, perfect for securing valuables.
Moving towards the back, there are two storage compartments, one with wireless charging and another with removable cup holders.
European feedback highlighted a preference for storage, so we designed accordingly.
The X Factor: Practicality Meets Customization
Q: This could be the X Factor that makes you stand out from other brands!
A: Definitely! In the EV world, many assumed customers wanted flat platforms with space. But customers actually desire more storage and functionality.
Our removable cup holder is innovative because we’ve released its digital data on Ford’s website, allowing people to create their customized accessories. This opens up a world of possibilities for customization and personalization.
Sustainability in Design: Going Green with the Capri
Q: Sustainability is the need of the hour. Can you tell us what role sustainability played in the design process of the Ford Capri?
A: Because the Capri is electric, we’re very mindful of its environmental impact. We’ve set a target that 78% of the car will be recycled by the end of its life.
We’ve also invested $2 billion in our Cologne factory to maximize energy efficiency, relying heavily on renewable energy sources. Plus, the Capri is leather-free, using a new material called Sensical, which is cruelty-free and aligns with our sustainability goals.
Overcoming Design Challenges: The Capri’s Evolution
Q: Could you share some of the biggest design challenges the team faced during the development of the new Ford Capri?
A: The design team definitely felt the pressure of the Capri’s legacy. One of the biggest challenges was achieving the coupe silhouette we envisioned.
We didn’t want a rear window wiper, as it could disrupt the car’s sleek profile.
Ensuring aerodynamics while keeping the rear window clean was tricky. Another challenge was transitioning from a traditionally horizontal screen to a vertical one inside the car. Overall, these were the key challenges we faced.
Ford’s Vision for Electric Vehicle Design: Bold, Optimistic, and Unique
Q: How does the design of the new Capri reflect Ford’s vision for the future of electric vehicle design?
A: We’re executing our strategy of hero nameplates, where each vehicle stands out distinctly. From the F-150 to the Mustang GT, and now the Capri and Bronco, each has its unique DNA.
We embrace our American heritage instead of mimicking European styles, which sets us apart in the market. Our designs are straightforward and honest, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
Unlike other brands that impose a uniform design DNA across their lineup, we celebrate diversity within our range.
Hero Nameplates Strategy: Celebrating Unique Strengths
Q: Why is this shift happening? Is it due to Ford’s Hero Nameplate Strategy?
A: Yes, our hero nameplates strategy is like Marvel featuring different superheroes. Each Ford vehicle, whether it’s the Mustang, Bronco, or Capri, has its own unique characteristics and strengths.
This approach allows us to cater to a wide range of customer preferences without compromising what makes each vehicle special. It’s all about telling compelling stories through our products.
Proud Moments: What Stands Out in the New Capri
Q: As the Design Director, what aspect of the new all-electric Capri are you most proud of?
A: I’m most proud of how easily recognizable the car is from a distance. This recognition comes from its proportions and distinctive graphics that make it stand out.
The bold graphics and unique colors help it get noticed. It’s about making customers feel confident that they can safely transport their families while enjoying a sporty driving experience.
AI in Design: Enhancing Creativity Without Replacing It
Q: There’s a lot of discussion about AI nowadays. What are your thoughts and have you already started incorporating this tool in your design process at Ford?
A: Yes, we’ve started using AI tools in the studio. AI can assist in certain aspects, like providing inspiration and saving time on tasks like rendering.
However, creativity and the deeper reasons behind design decisions must come from humans. AI can’t innovate or solve complex, human-centered design problems on its own.
It’s a tool, much like Photoshop, but it can’t replace the human touch in design.
Advice for Aspiring Automotive Designers: Curiosity and Collaboration
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring automotive designers who look up to the design work of the Ford Capri?
A: It’s incredibly important for the younger generation to be curious about what’s happening in the world. Designing with a purpose and a clear concept in mind is key.
Collaboration is also crucial – design is never a solo endeavor. I often tell aspiring designers to think through their designs and understand the reasons behind their choices.
Be transparent about your process and embrace the power of teamwork.
Conclusion: The New Ford Capri – A Blend of Legacy and Innovation
Reviving the Ford Capri as an all-electric vehicle is a bold move by Ford, blending the car’s rich legacy with modern design and technology.
From its distinctive silhouette to its human-centric interior, the new Capri is designed to cater to the aspirational mindset of modern drivers. Sustainability, practicality, and customization are at the forefront of this design, making it a standout in the EV market.
With insights from Amko Leenarts, we get a glimpse into the meticulous design process that brought this iconic car into the future. Whether you’re a fan of American muscle or a new generation of EV enthusiasts, the 2024 Ford Capri is set to make waves.
Get ready to experience the next chapter in the Capri’s storied history!
