Date: 28th June 2000 Reference: PR/56/00 Urban design for the 21st century Dale Grewer, 25, a student on the world-renowned Royal College of Art Vehicle Design Course in London, has won this year's Pilkington Automotive Award for his vision of a Rolls-Royce for the 21st century as well as a rugged city car for today's urban landscape. The award is presented for the most innovative use of glazing and carries a £1500 prize. Grewer was judged to be the most successful candidate from an international group of students. Grewer's unique double entry is set to create interest with its radical departure from the Rolls Royce image of the last 50 years. He explains: "My vision of a Rolls-Royce for the 21st century is influenced by the individually built Rolls-Royces of the 1930s." Commenting on his other design, Grewer from York, says: "My city car concept is for use in busy driving environments like Paris. This gave me the chance to experiment with different types of glazing. My design uses body-coloured side glazing with one way vision to ensure privacy for the driver when surrounded by other harassed commuters." Dr Alan Woodward, global technology manager for shaping at Pilkington Automotive and one of the judges, noted; "Once again, the winner of the Pilkington Automotive Award shows an innovative use of glazing, using its functional and safety benefits, as well as being aesthetically-pleasing. Dale has displayed true creativity in vehicle design with a real understanding of how to manipulate and experiment with glass." Jaguar's Principal Designer Keith Helfet, also a judge, commented: "One of the major strengths of both concepts was their use of glass. There was an extensive use of glazing on the upper surfaces of the Rolls-Royce design, exposing the logo on top of the engine. The sidelights contributed to the flowing style of the vehicle, demonstrating the important role glazing plays in the overall design of a vehicle." Alan Woodward concluded: "Through our sponsorship of the award, Pilkington seeks to build relationships with the vehicle designers of the future, gaining an invaluable insight into the future of automotive design and providing a link between industry and academia." Dale's experience in the automotive sector includes graduating in transport design from Coventry University and work experience with Lotus Design. His studies have been sponsored by Land Rover and he comments: "My previous experiences have been very educational but the RCA's Vehicle Design Course is truly invaluable in providing a foundation for my future. Other courses provide the basics of vehicle design but the RCA takes it a step further, encouraging students to develop their own creativity and style." Ends Issued on behalf of Pilkington Automotive by Key Communications. For further information: John Wilson, Louise Price or Richard Postins on 0121 456 3199.