Skoda, the new interior designer is Chan Park | FP

The next generation of Skoda-branded electric vehicles will have a new signature. And it is that of Chan Park, a former NIO designer, hired by the Bohemian car manufacturer to help shape the interiors of the company’s future models. We talked about NIO, but Park’s experience in the design field goes further: after graduating from the Royal College of Art in London, in fact, he also spent part of his professional career at Pininfarina, KIA, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

Skoda has a new interior designer

In 2021, as mentioned, the definitive move to NIO: As chief interior designer of the Chinese electric vehicle brand, he was responsible for designing the distinctively minimalist and technology-focused cabin of the new ET9 flagship SUV. Who knows if some elements of the many introduced by Park on that model they will also be used on Skodas of the future: Think of the luxurious four-seat layout modeled on private jets, the modular central workspace in the rear, the distinctive vertically split glass roof, the dashboard that eschews physical buttons for mostly touch and voice control, and so on.

Nominated Chan Park

As reported by Autocar, in any case, a minimalist approach of this type, which Park also previously had at Audi, is markedly different from what can be expected from a brand like Skoda, which historically has loudly promoted the advantages offered by physical switches and buttons, in line with a dual focus on ease of use and comfort. It is no coincidence that the new flagship models of the Czech brand, Superb and Kodiaqhave been equipped with a series of so-called “smart dials” to adjust the climate control, audio and other main functions.

Experience in NIO, but not only

“I am delighted to welcome Chan Park to the Skoda Design team, his Proven experience with major car manufacturers makes him the ideal candidate for the role of Head of Interior Design – commented Oliver Stefani, head of Skoda automotive design – I’m excited to see him implement his ‘less is more’ design philosophy, perfectly aligning aesthetics and functionality in our vehicles. I look forward to working with him and wish him every success. Peter Olah has made a significant contribution to creating a distinctive and holistic design DNA in our vehicle interiors. I look forward to continuing to work with him in his new position and wish him joy and much success.”