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April 15, 2015
FIAT | Fumie Shibata vs. Fiat 500: Design's Power Transcends Hierarchy
Vol.2 Fumie Shibata vs. Fiat 500
The Power of Design Transcends Hierarchy
Creators active in various fields confront the latest automobiles, unfolding an unprecedented creative discourse on cars. In this second installment, industrial designer Fumie Shibata appears. She discusses the Fiat 500, reborn from a motif of its historic predecessor, from both her professional standpoint, grounded in a firm philosophy of tools, and her sensibility as a woman who values inspiration.
Composition and Text: Juro TanakaPhotography: Yasuhiko Rokuhongi
Fumie Shibata
Graduated from Musashino Art University's Department of Industrial Design in 1990. After joining Toshiba, she established Design Studio S in 1994. She is an industrial designer who works on a wide range of products, from daily necessities to home appliances. Her representative works include Omron's electronic thermometer "Kenonkun," au's mobile phone "Sweets," and Combi's baby bath "babylabel." She is also a passionate car enthusiast.
http://www.design-ss.com/
Fiat 500
This revival of the original "Cinquecento," produced for 20 years since its launch in 1957, debuted in 2007 and arrived in Japan the following year. Its key feature is the design, inspired by the beloved shape of its predecessor. It is supported by modern technology, including a 4-seater body measuring 3.5 meters in length and 1.2/1.4-liter engines with a 5-speed semi-automatic transmission. Prices range from 2.22 million to 2.5 million yen.
http://www.fiat-auto.co.jp/fiat500/