By
Matthew Hearfield
February 18, 2025
Updated
February 18, 2025
In this episode, Daniel Darancou, Chief Designer at PACCAR, dives into the evolution of vehicle design, sustainability, and the impact of cutting-edge technology on the automotive industry. With a career spanning global markets, from California’s car culture to shaping electric and autonomous vehicles in China, Daniel shares his unique perspective on where the industry is headed.
Join us as we explore the balance between artistry and engineering in automotive design, the rise of EVs, and what it takes to create vehicles that are both innovative and timeless.
Listen to the full episode below:
The evolution of automotive design
Now you can create a lot of designs and generate a lot of surfaces in the computer, but they lack soul. So I want to bring the soul back into the equation.
Daniel Darancou is passionate about keeping the human touch alive in automotive design. He emphasises that modern digital design processes, particularly computer-aided design (CAD), lack the depth and soul that traditional sculpting methods once provided.
He believes young designers must reclaim craftsmanship by incorporating hand-modelling techniques and engaging in the physical shaping of vehicles rather than relying solely on computers. His approach to teaching includes hands-on design, encouraging young professionals to experiment with clay modelling, and fostering creativity beyond software tools.
The future of customisation in electric vehicles
The future is actually very fluid right now because the question is, can you really customise an electric vehicle?
Daniel Darancou raises concerns about the future of vehicle customisation in an era dominated by electric vehicles (EVs). He acknowledges that automotive culture has always been deeply tied to personalisation, from muscle cars to hot rods, but wonders whether this tradition can survive in the EV landscape.
Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, where modifications could be made to engines, exhaust systems, and tuning kits, EVs are more software-dependent, and many customisation options may be restricted by manufacturers. This shift could make it harder for car enthusiasts to modify their vehicles in the ways they once did.
China's automotive industry & global competition
They were open to innovation and also open to creating an ecosystem, which is why the largest producing vehicle manufacturer in the world is in China, and they are almost unstoppable."
Daniel Darancou discusses how China rapidly transformed its automotive industry, learning from the successes of Japan (1970s) and South Korea (1980s). He highlights that China’s car manufacturers initially struggled with outdated designs, but through foreign expertise, aggressive innovation, and government support, they are now the world’s largest vehicle producers.
Unlike Western automakers, which often focus on legacy systems, Chinese manufacturers embrace risk-taking, rapid iteration, and technological adoption. This approach has allowed them to dominate the EV market, with companies like BYD, NIO, and Geely leading global expansion.
Sustainability & autonomous vehicles
This episode highlights how cars, trucks, and aircraft are among the largest contributors to carbon emissions, and the transition to EVs and alternative energy sources is critical.
Darancou believes that sustainability is not just about replacing gas-powered cars with EVs, but about rethinking mobility entirely. He suggests that future generations may prioritise ride-sharing, autonomous vehicles, and even personal drones (VTOLs) over individual car ownership.
Cultural influences on automotive trends.
Daniel's career has taken him across Los Angeles, Italy, Germany, Japan, and China, shaping his perspective on how culture influences car design and consumer preferences.
- In Los Angeles, he was surrounded by car culture, where vehicles symbolize freedom and identity.
- In Italy, he learned sculptural, hands-on design techniques from Lancia and Alfa Romeo, where the focus was on extracting beauty from raw materials.
- In Japan and China, he experienced precision engineering, rapid innovation, and a willingness to experiment with new concepts.
This global exposure gave him a unique understanding of how different regions approach automotive design and manufacturing.
The role of government & industry in shaping the future
You need to be able to combine the three elements: faster service, lower cost, and lower carbon footprint.
This episode highlights the critical role of government policies and industry regulations in shaping the future of transportation, energy, and sustainability. Daniel argues that while automakers are innovating, government action is essential for large-scale adoption of EVs, sustainable infrastructure, and alternative energy sources.
He warns that without proper regulations and incentives, the transition to cleaner energy and smarter mobility solutions will be much slower. At the same time, he sees government inaction, especially in North America, as a major roadblock to EV infrastructure development.
Key takeaways
- Design Evolution – CAD has replaced hands-on car design, losing its artistic soul.
- EV Customization – EVs’ reliance on software limits traditional car modifications.
- China’s Rise – China dominates auto manufacturing through innovation and state support.
- Sustainability – EV adoption hinges on battery tech and clean energy infrastructure.
- Cultural Influence – Daniel's perspective on car manufacturing has been shaped by career spanning the US, Europe and Asia
- Government & Industry – Policies and infrastructure dictate the future of mobility.
Article and quotes have been edited for brevity and clarity.
