Electric Cars

Vauxhall, a brand under the Stellantis umbrella, has introduced a contemporary iteration of its distinctive Griffin emblem. This refresh marks a pivotal moment for the automaker, aligning its visual identity with its future design philosophy and its strong commitment to an electrified vehicle lineup. The updated logo, characterized by its clean lines and simplified form, is set to be a key element in the brand's forthcoming models, starting with the STX Concept's unveiling at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. This strategic move underscores Vauxhall's dedication to innovation while maintaining a connection to its rich heritage, ensuring the brand remains relevant and visually striking in the evolving automotive landscape.

This visual transformation extends beyond just the emblem, as Vauxhall is also implementing a comprehensive corporate identity update across its retail network. This holistic approach emphasizes that the logo redesign is not merely a superficial change but a foundational shift in how the brand presents itself as it prepares for its next generation of vehicles. The redesigned Griffin, with its enhanced visibility when illuminated, is particularly relevant for the electric vehicle era, where glowing logos are becoming increasingly common. This forward-thinking design ensures that Vauxhall's emblem not only honors its past but also positions the brand for a bright and electrified future.

Vauxhall's Griffin: A Modern Makeover for Electrified Horizons

Vauxhall has recently unveiled a modernized version of its iconic Griffin logo, a significant step in updating the brand's identity to resonate with its future design direction and the accelerating shift towards electric vehicles. The revamped emblem boasts a more refined, angular appearance, notably omitting the flag for the first time in its history. This minimalist design is specifically crafted to harmonize with the brand's illuminated Vizor grille, a prominent styling element introduced in 2021. The cleaner lines of the new logo are expected to enhance its visual impact when lit, an increasingly common feature among contemporary car manufacturers. This strategic design evolution mirrors a broader industry trend, where many automakers are simplifying their logos to better suit the aesthetic demands of the electric era.

The updated Griffin will first be showcased on the STX Concept at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, with its integration into production models scheduled for next year. This move by Vauxhall, following a similar update by its sister brand Opel, highlights a deliberate effort to evolve its visual branding. Mark Adams, Vauxhall's Design Vice President, emphasized that the goal was to preserve the emblem's core elements while streamlining it for the next generation of electrified vehicles. This redesign is intended to complement the ongoing evolution of Vauxhall's "Bold and Pure" design language, ensuring that the logo is not only distinctive but also easily recognizable, especially when illuminated on the brand's innovative new models. This strategic refresh underlines Vauxhall's commitment to a progressive yet heritage-conscious future.

Preserving Heritage: Vauxhall's Enduring Role Within Stellantis

The introduction of Vauxhall's new logo conveys a strong message regarding its enduring presence and future within the Stellantis conglomerate. Rather than gradually phasing out the British marque, Stellantis is actively investing in a revitalized brand identity for Vauxhall, integrating it into the upcoming generation of vehicles. This commitment signals that Vauxhall will continue to play a vital role, indicating that the automotive group recognizes the intrinsic value of preserving the brand's unique emblem as Stellantis navigates its extensive portfolio of automotive brands. This strategic decision showcases a clear intent to maintain Vauxhall's distinct position in the market.

This approach also provides a practical benefit by differentiating Vauxhall from its Stellantis counterparts, particularly in the UK market where the brand boasts a long and storied history. By upholding a recognizable identity, Stellantis can effectively distinguish its offerings, avoiding the simple rebadging of Opel models. Therefore, the refreshed Griffin is more than just a cosmetic alteration; it represents a reaffirmation of Vauxhall's continued significance within Stellantis's future plans. Stellantis's European boss, Emanuele Cappellano, has previously stated that while future Vauxhall products will share platforms, powertrains, and technology, they will feature unique designs, body styles, and brand-specific characteristics, ensuring they remain distinct from other Stellantis brands like Peugeot.

Porsche Design and Newgard Development Group have unveiled a groundbreaking concept that redefines luxury car ownership, transforming conventional vehicle storage into an elite, members-only country club experience. Named Porsche Design Concours, this innovative venture will debut in West Palm Beach, Florida, and Dallas, Texas, with the West Palm Beach site projected to open its doors in 2028. This initiative caters to discerning automobile collectors, offering an unparalleled blend of security, exclusivity, and community.

Each Porsche Design Concours location will integrate deeded automobile studios with an upscale Clubhouse, emphasizing hospitality and personal well-being. A distinguishing feature of this project is its inclusivity; it welcomes collectors of any automotive brand, moving beyond the traditional model of brand-specific facilities. This approach fosters a broader community of enthusiasts, providing a unique social hub for sharing passion and camaraderie.

The strategic selection of West Palm Beach and Dallas as the inaugural locations was intentional, aiming to tap into thriving communities of car collectors in South Florida and North Texas. The developers, Porsche Design and Newgard Development Group, recognized the need for a dense enthusiast base to ensure the success and vibrancy of such a membership-driven project. While additional cities are under consideration for future expansion, no specific locations have been disclosed yet.

Harvey Hernandez, CEO and founder of Newgard Development Group, underscored the personal significance of this undertaking, noting his lifelong involvement with both real estate development and automotive culture. He articulated a long-term vision to progressively roll out a meticulously curated network of these luxury automotive destinations across the United States, thereby establishing a new benchmark in collector car services.

The initial facilities in West Palm Beach and Dallas are designed to house a total of 44 privately owned automobile studios, with 22 units in each city. These studios, ranging from 2,700 to 6,000 square feet, will be offered exclusively via invitation, ensuring a carefully selected membership. Each studio boasts a mezzanine level, a full bathroom, wet bar amenities, and a climate-controlled environment, meticulously crafted to preserve vehicles over the long term.

Central to the architectural design of each location is 'The Concours,' an interior promenade that serves as a sophisticated display area rather than a mere parking space. This thoughtful arrangement allows vehicles to be showcased and admired, elevating the experience beyond that of a typical garage complex. Volker Strotmeier of the Porsche Lifestyle Group Executive Board highlighted that Porsche Design Concours signifies an exciting evolution of their design philosophy, reflecting Porsche Design's expanding interest in lifestyle and bespoke projects that complement its automotive legacy.

The Clubhouse serves as the social epicentre of the Concours, offering an array of amenities more akin to a private country club than a car storage facility. Members can anticipate padel courts, comprehensive spa and wellness services, fine dining options, private lounges, co-working spaces, and outdoor terraces. Enhanced by event venues and dedicated concierge services, alongside round-the-clock security, the Clubhouse prioritizes community engagement and a premium lifestyle, creating a sophisticated environment for car enthusiasts to connect and indulge their passion.

The concept’s appeal is broad, welcoming vehicle collections from any manufacturer. This inclusive approach establishes Porsche Design Concours as a multi-brand social nexus, moving beyond an exclusive club for Porsche 911 or GT3 owners. While details regarding membership fees and specific pricing remain undisclosed, and whether non-studio members will gain access to the Clubhouse is yet to be determined, studio sales will proceed by invitation as the projected 2028 opening date approaches, generating significant anticipation among high-end car collectors.