VDL Futura 3 by VDL Bus Group
- Case VDL Futura 3
- Client VDL Bus & Coach
- Industry Public Transport Buses & Coaches
The Challenge
Over the years, MODYN has contributed to the development of VDL’s design identity across its full product range. From defining the first brand language in 2008 to the evolution of the Citea family and the acclaimed Futura 2, each project has been realized in close collaboration with VDL’s internal design and engineering teams.
With the VDL Futura 3, the ambition extended beyond creating a new flagship coach. The challenge was to further evolve the distinctive VDL design DNA while meeting ambitious aerodynamic, comfort and efficiency targets. Improved fuel economy, reduced total cost of ownership and an enhanced passenger experience were key drivers.
The result needed to integrate exterior design, aerodynamic performance, and passenger comfort seamlessly, continuing a design journey that began more than a decade ago.
Design continuity and efficiency were central priorities. The long-standing partnership between VDL and MODYN allowed for close alignment between teams, enabling rapid and well-informed decision-making throughout the process. Aerodynamic optimization played a defining role. VDL’s in-house CFD simulations were applied directly to the design models, ensuring that visual identity and performance remained closely linked.
Safety and regulatory readiness also guided the design direction, aligning the coach with the latest General Safety Regulation (GSR) standards and future market requirements.
The Outcome
Unveiled at Busworld 2025, the VDL Futura 3 marks a new chapter in the brand’s design and product evolution. With up to 15% improved fuel efficiency, full GSR compliance, and a modular, future-ready platform, the coach brings together aesthetics, performance, and durability in one cohesive statement.
The Futura 3 continues the legacy of its predecessors, combining sharper identity, refined engineering, and a renewed sense of premium quality, the result of a strong and enduring collaboration between VDL’s internal teams and MODYN.
To define the next step in the Futura lineage, both teams revisited what had made earlier generations successful. VDL collected input from customers, service departments, and fleet operators, translating these insights into tangible design requirements. MODYN built upon these foundations, developing brand and form studies aligned with VDL’s functional and technical framework.
The Futura 3 represents a carefully considered evolution of the brand’s design language. MODYN supported VDL in shaping the overall design theme, proportions, and key identity elements such as the broad stance and characteristic A-pillars that define the Futura family.
The detailed development of the headlamps, taillamps, front integration, and component layout was led by VDL in collaboration with suppliers, balancing expressive design with technical efficiency.
Inside, the focus was on comfort, quality, and a refined passenger experience. MODYN contributed to the conceptual composition of materials and finishes, while VDL carried out the detailed surfacing, trim development, and ergonomic refinement, including upholstery, stitching, and material specification.
From early sketches and 3D CAD to full-scale modelling, close cooperation between both teams ensured that proportions, aerodynamics, and manufacturability were validated early on. MODYN supported the design process, while VDL executed the engineering development, mock-ups, and physical validation.
Reflection
This project showcases how strong collaboration and design leadership on the client side are essential to the success of complex product development. The ability to coordinate multiple disciplines, manage design inputs, and maintain a shared vision across partners was crucial in bringing the Futura 3 to market. Under VDL’s design leadership and with support from MODYN, the teams overcame technical, aerodynamic, and regulatory challenges, uniting design and engineering to deliver the next generation of European mobility.
