The Volvo FLAT concept by Janghun Choi takes the future of mobility to a whole new level, merging cutting-edge innovation with a nostalgic nod to Volvo's iconic design language. This personal design study reimagines tomorrow’s transportation through the refined lens of modern product design. Drawing from the bold, boxy aesthetics of Volvo’s 1970s heritage, the concept blends a sense of familiarity with forward-thinking minimalism. Its robust, reliable DNA is unmistakable, yet it dazzles with sleek, futuristic lines that speak to the clean simplicity of contemporary design.
The Volvo FLAT captivates with its daring roof design, a bold statement of form and function. Starting with a sharply angled surface above the headlamps, the roof flows seamlessly over the vehicle, creating an unbroken sweep that exudes aerodynamic elegance. This design doesn’t just catch the eye—it defines the vehicle's character. At the rear, sharp, angular lines take centre stage, giving the 'FLAT' an unmistakable silhouette. The pièce de résistance? A meticulously integrated tail lamp slicing through the middle serves as a sleek visual accent that perfectly marries precision with purpose.
Minimalism meets functionality on the side profile
The body of the Volvo FLAT embodies the art of minimalism, where less truly becomes more. With clean surfaces and pure geometric shapes, its design feels refreshingly uncluttered, free of any superfluous ornamentation. Yet, it’s far from ordinary—the drama lies in its boldly protruding fenders. These striking features create a captivating contrast as they intersect with the main body and wheel arches, producing a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that commands attention. This masterful detailing echoes the essence of modern product design, where every element serves a purpose, blending function and beauty into a seamless, sophisticated whole.
The Volvo FLAT may look like it’s straight out of the future, but it stays deeply rooted in the brand’s cherished legacy. Its bold, boxy silhouette nods to Volvo’s iconic classics while reimagining the proportions for a modern audience. Every detail feels meticulously carved, as if sculpted from a single block, exuding an air of simplicity and solidity that harks back to Volvo’s golden era. Yet, it’s not just a nostalgic tribute—it’s a masterful fusion of innovation and heritage, perfectly tailored for a new generation that craves forward-thinking design without losing touch with the past. The Volvo FLAT serves as a reminder that future mobility doesn’t have to forsake its roots. By staying true to its identity while adapting to modern trends, this design study showcases how legacy and innovation can harmoniously coexist. Whether it’s the sharp roofline, the angular rear design, or the carefully considered minimalistic theme, the 'FLAT' is a bold vision of what Volvo’s future could look like in the evolving world of automotive design.