Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jiayi Chen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jiayi, thanks for joining us today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

As an in-car product designer, my work spans various components like digital clusters, in-vehicle infotainment systems, rear seat entertainment systems, and even augmented reality heads-up displays. A significant trend we’re seeing is how intelligent surfaces in vehicles are transforming the user experience for both drivers and passengers, especially as we move into an era of mobility.

One of the biggest challenges and opportunities we face is adapting to the shift towards autonomous driving. As vehicles become increasingly autonomous, people will have more time and attention to spend inside the car. Eventually, the lines between a vehicle, a home, and an office will blur, leading to a redefinition of these spaces. Exploring these possibilities is both exciting and challenging, as it pushes us to rethink the entire driving experience.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

After graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in Interactive Design, I have been deeply involved in the automotive industry, driven by my passion for cars. My work encompasses a range of components, including digital clusters, in-vehicle infotainment systems, rear seat entertainment systems, and even augmented reality heads-up displays.

Currently, I’m contributing to the development of next-generation intelligent cockpits at Toyota North America. What sets my work apart is my focus on creating seamless and intuitive user experiences that not only enhance the driving experience but also redefine how people interact with their vehicles.

I’m proud of the innovative solutions I’ve developed that push the boundaries of what in-car technology can do, always aiming to make each journey safer, more enjoyable, and more connected. For me, it’s not just about designing for today, but also envisioning the future of mobility and how it will transform the way we live and move.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I consider myself a designer, and while there is certainly a creative and artistic aspect to my work—like aesthetics, color, and emotion—my approach is grounded more in rational thinking, reliable design principles, and always considering the user’s perspective. For me, creativity comes into play when thinking about future design trends.

In the automotive industry, we often have to design for vehicles that will be released five, even ten years down the line. The challenge is to ensure that the designs we create today remain timeless and relevant in the future. This forward-thinking aspect of my work is both the challenge and the part I find most rewarding, as it allows me to explore and shape the future of automotive design.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

I used to be someone who was deeply fascinated by mechanical structures—things like automotive powertrains and the intricate workings of vehicles captivated me. I could recognize almost every car on the road, knowing their prices, specifications, and more. But as I saw more and more vehicles, I realized that fewer of them truly resonated with me. Many designs and experiences left me wanting something more.

This realization led me to study and understand how to design a car myself. I wanted to create something that would meet my own high standards. My journey as a creative has been driven by this desire to design a vehicle from the ground up, one that perfectly aligns with my vision. It’s a journey of constant learning, and I hope that one day I’ll have the opportunity to bring my dream car to life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.charleschendesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charles.chen_/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jiayi-chen-40a2b2205/