O v e r v i e w
Project: Ford Expedition Interior Production
Time: 2014 - 2017
Credit: Lead Interior Designer
Our primary objective for the Ford Expedition interior was to craft a more refined and spacious environment, particularly enhancing third-row seating for best-in-class entry and egress, all while preserving the signature Ford showroom aesthetics. We maximized the interior space, integrating the F-150's instrument panel architecture to create a cohesive, truck-like feel, and selected durable materials to ensure a long-lasting, crafted interior.
R e s e a r c h & I n s p i r a t i o n
Our team aimed to deliver thoughtful and innovative interior proposals, working harmoniously to achieve the highest quality and premier design service. Rafael Rego sought to strengthen the emotional connection with Ford customers. Despite our global presence, we ensured that our interiors embodied the essence of Ford, with a fundamental genetic code and internationally relevant design philosophy. Our goal was to create interiors that resonate with people worldwide, offering familiar comfort in an essential and elevated way.
C o n c e p t D e v e l o p m e n t
My perspective defined a slim volume, emphasizing proportion and contrast between soft comfort and hard technology for perceived efficiency. Precision in slim details, often achieved by using negative space beneath the surface, results in compactness, flushness, and high perceived quality.
D o o r P a n e l C o n c e p t D e v e l o p m e n t
The balance between soft comfort and hard technology, enhancing perceived efficiency. By utilizing negative space beneath the surface, I achieved precise, refined details, resulting in a sleek design that exudes high quality.
M a t e r i a l S e l e c t i o n
We are shifting from “muscular” and “solid” to “svelte” and “high tech,” moving upmarket with high-end fit-and-finish and luxury appointments. Interiors feature real wood trim, metal accents, soft-touch materials, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a dual-panel panoramic glass roof, premium leather climate-controlled seats, and a leather-wrapped dash, steering wheel, and door panels with ornamental stitching.
P r o t o t y p i n g
Truck Space and 3rd Row Seating
The 3D model emphasizes a truck-like feel with varied surfaces and shapes, catering to customer growth needs, especially in luxury trims. Sturdy hard plastics ensure a durable, crafted interior, celebrating desired materials. Intuitive technology is integrated, and the cargo space remains clear yet versatile.
Final Design Production
Truck Space and 3rd Row Seating
Functionality was our main focus. As a family car, we considered storage needs for activities like sports. We designed the truck space with versatile shelving and a movable panel to prevent items from falling out when the back door opens, similar to a storage chest trunk.
F i n a l P r o d u c t
The 2017 Expedition design journey was dynamic from the start. We aimed to retain effective elements while addressing design concerns, creating a more holistic and cohesive interior. The final result is a stronger yet simple design environment, reflecting our commitment to refinement. It was made available in several trims, including XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum.
