Walter de Silva does not want design differences between electric and non-electric cars

Walter da Silva is very well known in the design world, besides being the head of the design department of Volkswagen. In statements to Autobild, da Silva explains that Volkswagen must all be the same, with no differences between electric and conventional models, when almost everyone is looking for a break from traditional design with the new electric concepts.

If one followed trends at any cost, one would run the risk of designing something so fashionable that it will be forgotten by the following year. Electric cars have their own design needs, that is true. But that will not change our approach to designing cars.

Although the electric car is mostly governed by aerodynamics when its final shape is designed, da Silva thinks quite the opposite:

Look at our 1 Litre concept. Aerodynamics determined the silhouette of the car. But the Up! not only has an attractive silhouette, it also offers the best in terms of functionality. The customer will not lose anything by buying the electric version. The differences are minimal, except for specific equipment.

Da Silva also commented that the next generations of cars will be designed from the inside out, giving very special importance to interior design, ergonomics and the equipment available to connect many portable and entertainment devices. Something like turning the car’s interior into a small second home, as da Silva puts it.