BMW head of design Chris Bangle has quit the car industry, it has been announced. He was responsible for some of BMW’s most controversial designs to date - including the last 7 Series, the X3 and 6 Series - and his unique style often split fans down the middle.
He has worked closely with Adrian van Hooydonk in BMW Group design development for nearly 17 years. Bangle is handing over his post to van Hooydonk, who is currently Head of BMW Automobile Design.
‘Christopher Bangle has had a lasting impact on the identity of BMW Group's brands. His contribution to the company's success has been decisive, and together with his teams he has mapped out a clear and aesthetic route into the future,’ said Dr Klaus Draeger, BMW AG's board member for development.
He added that the BMW Group was currently 'in an excellent position', thanks to a broad portfolio of automobiles and several new vehicle concepts due for market launch in the coming months and years.
BMW said it would continue to build on a ‘design philosophy’ that could be seen across its range. Bangle had also been responsible for overseeing the design of the new MINI and Rolls Royces.
‘I am honoured and extremely excited to take on this new responsibility,’ said van Hooydonk. ‘BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce produce the best cars and motorcycles in their segment, and I am really looking forward to being able to contribute to the future development of these brands.’
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