Ian Callum’s design consultancy is creating luxury cars and innovations, from the Jaguar C-X75 revival to the eVITA electric vehicle for disabled drivers.
Ian Callum, the legendary automotive designer, has been making waves since leaving his role as Jaguar’s design chief in 2019. Shortly after his departure, Callum co-founded the Callum brand, a UK-based design and engineering consultancy. From remastering iconic models like the Aston Martin Vanquish to developing groundbreaking projects across various sectors, Callum’s new venture quickly garnered attention.
In the five years since, Callum’s brand has blossomed. This year, the consultancy introduced its first car, the Skye, an electric off-road coupe that promises to blend adventure with luxury. Callum’s vision for his consultancy is ambitious, as he looks to transition from design consultancy to car manufacturer in the coming years.
“For us, becoming an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) was always the goal,” Callum explained in an interview with *Motor1*. “Eventually, I envision the consultancy taking a backseat, as manufacturing becomes the main focus.” He added that his decision to leave corporate life was driven by the desire for freedom to design on his own terms. “You can’t truly create the car you want unless you do it yourself,” Callum reflects.
The Skye isn’t designed to be a mass-market vehicle. Instead, it’s crafted for those who seek a special, indulgent experience. “It’s not a necessity, it’s a desire. A car you want, not one you need,” says Callum. While practical elements are there, the Skye’s interior is focused on luxury, offering tactile controls and a mix of digital and physical interfaces that enhance the driving experience. “I believe in controls being functional, not buried in a touchscreen,” Callum quips.
Though the Skye isn’t for everyone, Callum sees it as a perfect “third or fourth car” for those seeking an exotic, low-volume luxury vehicle. Looking to the future, Callum hints that more sporty models are on the horizon.
Meanwhile, another of Callum’s iconic projects has come to life: the fully-realized Jaguar C-X75. Originally unveiled in 2010 as a limited-production supercar, the C-X75 project was tragically canceled, despite significant development. However, after making a memorable appearance as the antagonist’s car in the 2015 James Bond film *Spectre*, a few prototypes and stunt cars were produced. Callum and his team took it upon themselves to bring these cars up to roadworthy standards, investing 18 months in a painstaking restoration.
The C-X75’s revival wasn’t just about functionality—it was about design. “The original interior was minimal and rough,” Callum explains. “We completely reimagined it, focusing on strong, simple architecture and high-end details.” What started as a film prop is now a living, breathing supercar—a true testament to Callum’s design prowess.
In addition to reviving legendary cars, Callum’s consultancy is also focusing on creating vehicles with a purpose. One such project is the eVITA, an electric vehicle designed specifically for wheelchair users in collaboration with Motability Operations, a UK organization that assists disabled individuals in finding suitable vehicles.
“Current solutions for disabled drivers are often compromised,” Callum says. “We wanted to design a car that truly fits the needs of wheelchair users from the ground up.” The eVITA integrates a built-in ramp for wheelchair access and other innovative features like a parking light system that ensures spaces remain clear for users.
For Callum, designing cars for disabled drivers is personal. He believes that disability can affect anyone, and accessible vehicles should be both functional and stylish. “It’s not just about accommodating, it’s about offering a better quality of life,” he states.
Callum’s consultancy may be young, but it’s already made a significant impact on the automotive world. From the restoration of the C-X75 to the creation of the Skye and the eVITA, Callum continues to push boundaries, blending innovation with timeless design. With plans for more exciting projects in the pipeline, the future looks bright for Callum and his team.
