Now in its 18th year, the Contechs Design Award returns to shine a spotlight on the next generation of automotive design talent.
Rooted in our long-standing collaboration with Coventry University, this award continues to champion the creativity, innovation, and vision of final-year Transport Design students. As they present their capstone projects, a panel of industry leaders will assess each entry, recognising the bold ideas shaping the future of mobility.
We’re proud to introduce Marc Brumpton, Contechs’ Studio Director, and Chris Hilts, Contechs' US Head of Business Development and former OEM Design Director, to the judging panel for the first time. Marc and Chris will be joined by new judge Henry Morshead, Chief Designer for Hill Helicopters and former design leader in the automotive sector, as well as returning esteemed designer Carsten Astheimer, Founder and MD of Astheimer Design. Together, they will select this year’s standout designers.
Formerly known as the Steve Olney Memorial Award, this prestigious student award is presented every year in memory of Steve Olney, one of the founders of Contechs who sadly passed away in 2005. Steve’s passion for design, technology and innovation is still the driving force behind Contechs today.
The 2025 award ceremony will take place on 1st May at the inspiring Delia Derbyshire Building, where we look forward to another unforgettable evening of design and celebration.
