Adaptive surfaces and intelligent components merge Ford heritage with a vision of future mobility, expressing the mood of a democratized thrill.
Ford Threo
2025
Gen Z is the most stressed generation of our time, and by 2035 they will also become the core of the global economy facing constant pressure, digital overload, and the need for meaningful emotional release. Threo responds by democratising the emotional highs of motorsport, empowering more people to access the adrenaline, focus, and flow states once reserved only for elite drivers. The result is a vehicle concept that amplifies driving dynamics through AI-driven nutrients, enhancing thrill as users switch between Offline and Online modes to transform emotion, engagement, and performance.
Project information
AMPLIFYING THE THRILL OF DRIVING: This project explores how the design of a vehicle’s interior can enhance the emotional intensity, excitement and sensory engagement of driving. It investigates the relationship between interior aesthetics, ergonomics, materials, lighting, sound and technology to understand how these elements can work together to create a more thrilling, immersive experience for the driver.
Methods
Initial research focused on understanding how drivers perceive speed through bodily sensations, particularly under acceleration, braking and cornering. Insights from motorsport ergonomics, human biomechanics and sensory psychology helped to narrow down the design direction.
The project explores transformative interior components, elements that change form, feedback or behaviour in response to driving conditions. The steering wheel was selected as an interface due to its constant physical connection to the driver. Through sketching, digital modelling and ergonomic testing, the steering wheel was developed as an adaptive object that transforms during performance driving mode. Its geometry and feedback zones are designed to reorient in high G-force scenarios, reinforcing a sense of control. These transformations are not purely visual, but tactile, allowing the driver to feel changes through their hands.
Result
G-FORCE RESPONSIVE ILLUMINATION: LED panels embedded behind the left and right door trims respond dynamically to real-time G-forces. As the vehicle corners, accelerates or brakes, the LEDs brighten on the side where the force is acting, just like blood shifting within the body under pressure. This creates a natural, instinctive cue for the driver, enhancing their perception of vehicle dynamics.
Benjámin Dániel Fodor
Master's Programme in Transportation Design
Tomás Gaviria
Master's Programme in Transportation Design
Concept video.
From the beginning we got inspired by racing and in this case we found fascinating to use iconic elements like the halo from some racing categories to give a fresh and unique DNA.
Panel ideation, steering wheel transformation, frame design.
The CMF concept draws from a deep, enigmatic blue paired with a vibrant lime green. The blue evokes mystery and exclusivity, while the green signals energy and vitality. Introducing Threo.
THREO a vehicle that amplified the vehicle dynamics to enhance thrill through the use of AI nutrients by switching from Offline to Online mode.
Lightweight design, with reduced material usage.
With Thrill Mode off, the ergonomically optimized grips reposition the driver’s hands into a more natural, relaxed angle, reducing fatigue and supporting long-distance comfort.
When switching to thill mode, the steering wheel folds upward into a sportier, performance-oriented position, which visually communicates readiness.
The seat has 3 main functionalities: Positioning, Vibrations and G-force.
Intelligent seat design: Adjustable cushions and smart ropes dynamically apply pressure during turns, enhancing support and driving engagement.
Integrated seat elements amplify vibration for a racing-like feel, while the G-belt applies dynamic pressure to heighten G-force sensations.
Pure resonance: A dedicated channel delivers the authentic sound of the motors, refined and amplified for an immersive acoustic experience without artificial audio.
To activate the thrill mode, pull the lever in the roof panel.
LED panels embedded behind the left and right door trims respond dynamically to real-time G-forces.
The upper panel includes a convenient storage compartment designed for everyday essentials such as a phone, wallet, or registration papers. It keeps important items within reach while maintaining a clean interior layout.
