Design is a key element of any automotive or industrial product that comes with a certain functionality, and while it is extremely important to have good styling as well as aesthetic appeal in case of passenger vehicles, the off-highway segment that comprises agricultural and construction-equipment machinery relies more on function than form.

In this freewheeling conversation, David Wilkie, industrial design director, CNH Industrial talks about the evolution of industrial design, and how collaborative approach between engineering and design teams can ensure practical designs, which are cost effective and score well on manufacturability as well. 

Wilkie gives an idea about how the application of tractors and construction-equipment vehicles in India demands basic requirements such as robustness, convenience and durability, which are possible to meet with a collaborative approach between design and engineering teams. CNH Industrial, which has established a Tech Centre in India, is also looking to tap into the design talent available in the country to drive both domestic and global projects.