The Ford Fusion and Lexus LF-LC walked off with the awards in the 2012 EyesOn Design judging at the North American International Auto Show. The Fusion was named "Best Designed Production Vehicle in show. Of the Fusion, judges said,"it's real pure, one clean well executed statement, demonstrating effortless, design," The judgement of the panel of judges also reflected the general opinion of analysts, consultant and journalists attending the NAIAS press previews. The judges, all of who were automotive design professionals, selected the Lexus LF-LC as the "Best Designed Concept Vehicle. "It's a great exploration of design themes - super cool, very innovative interior," according to the judges. Lexus officials said the Lexus LF-LC will serve as a template for design of future Lexus vehicles.

Meanwhile, the Hyunai Elantra walked off with the award for "North American Car of the Year" as the NAIAS got underway on Monday. John Krafcik, president and chief executive officer of Hyundai Motor America, told the Automotive News World Congress, the award "won't help Hyundai sell one more care since we're capacity constrained. Hyundai, however, will use the award to help build the reputation of the Hyundai brand. "On the brand level we can use it as an indication we can compete" with anyone. It works at a very high level building the Hyundai brand," Krafcik said. By Joseph Szczesny

S