The rise of Chinese EV brands is pushing German car manufacturers to embrace riskier vehicle concepts and be more open-minded in their design approach, according to Michael Mauer, head of design at Porsche AG and Volkswagen AG. The lack of heritage and tradition among these new startups allows them to approach car design in a completely different way, challenging the established norms of the industry. This shift is seen as positive by designers like Mauer, as it encourages decision-makers to be more receptive to innovative and unconventional ideas.