A talented Coventry University graduate is celebrating a remarkable year after winning two major international design awards and landing a coveted role in the automotive industry.
Record-Breaking Success for Young Designer
Hanil Kim, aged 25, who completed his Automotive and Transport Design course in July, has achieved what many graduates dream of. His innovative work has been recognised on a global stage, leading to significant career opportunities.
Prestigious Award Wins
Hanil's exceptional year began when he won the global SAIC Design Challenge. This competition, run by one of China's largest automotive firms, tasked designers with creating innovative concepts for the iconic MG brand.
Building on this success, he was then presented with the prestigious Undiscovered Talent Award at the high-profile Car Design News People Awards in London. This major event in the global design calendar is judged by a panel of world-class industry experts.
The Innovative 'Hug' Concept
Hanil impressed competition judges with his unique 'Hug' car concept, which cleverly addresses modern family needs by balancing individual privacy with shared time together.
The design features:
- A primary vehicle section where adults can work or relax
- A secondary section specifically designed for children
- Interactive glass and drawing pads in the children's area
- The ability to reconfigure both sections to create one large family space
From Student to Professional Designer
After being shortlisted for the SAIC prize in July 2025, Hanil spent valuable time refining his futuristic vision at the SAIC design studio in London. To win his individual award, he had to demonstrate exceptional technical skills alongside original storytelling and strong brand identity development.
The young designer admitted feeling nervous about being shortlisted but described feeling incredibly proud to be named the overall winner. The ultimate prize was a full-time job offer, and Hanil is now working as a professional automotive designer at SAIC's London studio.
University Support and Industry Connections
Reflecting on his special year, Hanil described meeting so many industry leaders as truly unforgettable. He praised his professors at Coventry University, noting that working with industry partners during his studies provided invaluable experience and preparation.
Coventry University's automotive course has a long history of helping students successfully compete in international design competitions, with Hanil's achievements representing the latest in a line of successful graduates.
His journey from student to award-winning professional designer demonstrates the powerful combination of university education, industry partnerships, and individual talent that can launch exceptional careers in competitive fields.
