Chris Bangle, design chief for BMW, has stepped down in order to pursue his own design related work outside of the motor industry. Adrian van Hooydonk, head of design for the brand as a whole will replace him. Bangle has had a massive impact on the look of a wide variety of vehicles, but is no stranger to controversy due to what some say is a rather extrovert touch in his work.
Bangle’s work is no doubt progressive, which is an unusual choice in a rather staid brand – a criticism levelled at times against BMW – though arguably before he got down to serious business! Nonetheless, his work has repeatedly shown to be decisive, with those both for and against the look he has created right across the brand.
Amongst other vehicles, he’s worked on the 1 series, the 3, 5, 6, 7 (one of the most controversial and ironically most dull looking), Z4 and the legendary GINA. He’s also the man behind the ‘flame surfacing’ which gives many a BMW such unique lines.
There’s no doubt that Bangle was and is a legend within the industry, with his design cues taking BMW forward. I just hope that they aren’t going to rest on their laurels. I’d rather have a car that is hated by some and loved by others than merely ‘ok’. For what it’s worth Mr Bangle, I like your work and hope that you continue on to even greater success.
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