Past event
Cars: Accelerating the Modern World
As we approach another major turning point in automotive design, this exhibition looked at the role of the car in shaping the world we live in today.
"A thrilling ride"
The Independent
This exhibition is now closed at V&A South Kensington
Over its short 130-year history, the car has become one of the most loved, contested and influential innovations in the world. It has revolutionised manufacturing, transformed how we move, forever changing our cities, environment and economies.
Exhibition Highlights
Past Events
Features
About the 'Cars: Accelerating the Modern World' exhibition
Find out more about our latest exhibition
Car subcultures: dekotora, lowriders, and 'spinning'
Explore the worlds of three fascinating car subcultures
The evolution of European motorways 1920 – 2020
Explore the past 100 years of motorway construction in Europe
The car: petrol, power & pollution
"It was in part the association between gasoline and adventure that led to the eventual elimination of steam and electric cars in favour of the petrol engine".
Streamlined design: speed becomes style
How a need for speed transformed not just new driving technologies but also the look of everyday objects
Inside the 'Cars: Accelerating the Modern World' exhibition
Join curator, Brendan Cormier, on his Cars exhibition journey
Cars: Accelerating the Modern World
Supported by
Background image: E-Type Jag, opening of the M1 motorway, Vogue 1960. Photo Duffy. © Duffy Archive