Differentiation by Design with Derek Jenkins

In this conversation, Derek Jenkins, a renowned automotive designer and brand leader at Lucid Motors, shares his insights on car culture, the emotional connection to design, and the challenges of building a brand from scratch in the competitive electric vehicle market. He discusses the importance of storytelling in leadership, the influence of California on automotive design, and the future of electric vehicles. Jenkins emphasizes the need for emotional engagement in design and the significance of teamwork in overcoming challenges.

Takeaways

• Car culture is deeply rooted in lifestyle and geography.
• Design should evoke emotion and connect with consumers.
• Starting from scratch allows for creative freedom and innovation.
• California's culture significantly influences automotive design.
• Storytelling is essential for rallying a team and building a brand.
• Leadership involves connecting with people on an emotional level.
• Finding joy in small moments is vital for personal fulfillment.

About Derek Jenkins: Derek Jenkins is the Senior Vice President of Design and Brand at Lucid. He oversees all design developments, including exterior and interior design, user experience, color and material, accessories, and the overall design strategy. Prior to Lucid, Derek created iconic automotive designs for Mazda, Volkswagen, and Audi.  

Join the Conversation: We hope you enjoy this episode with Derek Jenkins. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts!

Where to find more: https://lucidmotors.com/company/leadership/derek-jenkins