The automotive industry has lost one of its brightest stars, 85-year-old Marcello Gandini. This legendary figure, born in Turin, whose career spans over 50 years, is a design master who has left an indelible legacy and reshaped the contours of the automotive industry. Gandini’s journey began in the mid-1960s with the renowned Bertone design company, where he replaced Giorgetto Giugiaro and quickly established his foresight in the field of automotive design. His early works included the two-seater convertible modification of the Porsche 911 and the luxury coupe based on the Jaguar S-Type, laying the foundation for a series of groundbreaking creations.
Gandini’s Iconic Automotive Designs
The Lamborghini Countach is a demonstration of Gandini’s virtuosity, with its streamlined, improved wedge-shaped profile becoming an icon of experimental vehicle design during the 1970s and 1980s. This design language influenced that era and continues to resonate in today’s car design. However, Gandini’s strength isn’t limited to the revolutionary supercar field. Over the last 50 years, his versatility has shone in the design of some of the most famous vehicles, including the first BMW 5 Series, the original Volkswagen Polo, Fiat 132, Renault 5 Super, and Citroen BX.
The Alfa Romeo 33 Carabo and Navajo concept cars further showcased his talent, as did the original concept cars of Bugatti EB110 and Lamborghini Diablo. After leaving Bertone, Gandini continued to innovate in the 1990s, collaborating with brands such as Nissan and Perodua to create designs that were more rounded and quirky. One of his final masterpieces is the Stola S86 Diamante, a concept car created in just five weeks for the 2005 Geneva Motor Show.
Gandini’s Impact and Legacy
Gandini’s influence surpassed his designs. He was a pioneer in developing automotive manufacturing methods aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs in the manufacturing process. His patents and innovations in this field demonstrate his forward-thinking approach to automotive design and production.
Tributes from the entire industry flooded in, with Lamborghini paying homage to the ‘indelible mark’ left by Gandini in car design, and Ferrari Design Director Flavio Manzoni mourning the passing of this ‘master’. Bertone’s tribute on Instagram summarizes the emotions of many, describing Gandini as a ‘visionary’ whose ‘creations, truly four-wheeled works of art, have left an indelible mark on history and will continue to inspire and captivate’.
Marcello Gandini’s legacy is not just a series of iconic cars; it is the inspiration he has provided for several generations of designers and enthusiasts. His works seamlessly blend art and engineering and will continue to receive praise and research from those who appreciate the beauty and innovation of automotive design. As we bid farewell to this giant of the industry, we remember that his designs will forever sail on the highways of history, a moving gallery of his extraordinary talent and foresight.
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Car design legend Marcello Gandini dies at 85
Design legend Marcello Gandini dead at 85
Car design legend Marcello Gandini dies at 85
