Marcello Gandini

Marcello Gandini, born in Turin on August 26, 1938, and passed away in Rivoli on March 13, 2024, was a renowned Italian designer celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to automotive design as well as his work in industrial design and furniture.

From a young age, Gandini exhibited a fascination with mechanics, a passion that would define his career. He became the head designer at Bertone, succeeding Giorgetto Giugiaro, and held the position until 1980 when he chose to continue as an independent professional.

During his tenure at Bertone, Gandini created some of the most iconic and admired Italian sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s. Among these were the Lamborghini Miura, Espada, Urraco, and Countach, all of which helped shape Lamborghini’s legacy. He also designed the Alfa Romeo Montreal, the Lancia Stratos, the Fiat X1/9, and the Ferrari GT4. Additionally, his vision extended to numerous concept cars that captivated the industry.

In 1974, his collaboration with Innocenti resulted in the launch of the Mini 90/120, a compact yet innovative design that remained in production for 19 years, adapting to various mechanical evolutions. Gandini’s portfolio also included widely popular vehicles such as the Fiat X1/9, Fiat 132, BMW 5 Series, Citroën BX, and Renault Supercinque, all of which achieved significant commercial success.

Throughout his career, Gandini balanced aesthetic innovation with practical design, earning him acclaim in both luxury and mass-market segments. His contributions extended beyond cars to industrial design and furniture, showcasing his versatile creativity.

In January 2024, the Polytechnic University of Turin awarded him an honorary degree in mechanical engineering in recognition of his lifetime achievements. Just two months later, he passed away at the age of 85, leaving a profound legacy in design.