Maruti Suzuki invites students to design cars for 2036
Maruti Suzuki India Limited has announced the second edition of its flagship design challenge, DesignXathon 2026, inviting students from Indian and global design institutes based in India to reimagine future-ready mobility for the next generation of buyers. The competition is aimed at encouraging young automotive designers to think beyond conventional styling and create concepts that reflect the aspirations of Gen Z and Alpha customers in 2036.
This year’s theme asks participants to envision an iconic vehicle that these younger audiences would want to own in 2036, with submissions expected to reflect a clear design vision for the 2035-2040 period. Entries will be judged on several factors, including the choice of vehicle category, relevance to the lifestyle of Gen Z and Alpha users, the integration of sustainability, and how well the design philosophy connects with emerging technologies. Maruti Suzuki said the initiative is part of its broader effort to nurture innovation and build a stronger design ecosystem in India.
According to Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi, automotive design is not just about appearance but a combination of creativity, innovation, and ideas that can shape customer choices.
He said the inaugural edition of the challenge offered a strong glimpse into the design talent available in the country and that the new edition gives young designers a chance to turn bold concepts into reality, while also gaining practical industry exposure through an internship opportunity.
The first edition of DesignXathon, launched in 2025, drew more than 400 students from 70 Indian and global design institutes. Participants created futuristic compact car concepts, and the winning teams came from MIT Institute of Design, VIT Vellore and Strate School of Design. Eight students from that edition are currently completing a six-month internship with Maruti Suzuki’s design team.
For DesignXathon 2026, the top three teams will receive a six-month internship with Maruti Suzuki’s design team, offering direct experience in a professional automotive studio environment.
Teams finishing fourth to tenth will also be recognised and given an opportunity to apply for internships. In addition, shortlisted teams will receive mentorship from experienced automotive design professionals, while cash prizes of up to INR 450,000 are on offer. Applications for Maruti Suzuki DesignXathon 2026 are open until 13 July 2026.
