Mitsubishi hires Audi’s head of concept design

MITSUBISHI Motors has poached Audi designer Alessandro Dambrosio in a bid to improve the look of its future products.

The move is a positive step by the Japanese carmaker, whose recent efforts – particularly the Pajero Sport – have become notable for their divisive designs.

Dambrosio, who most recently worked at Volkswagen Group as the head of the Audi Concept Design Studio in Munich, will join the Mitsubishi in October to head up its three advanced design studios, in Okazaki and Tokyo, Japan, and Frankfurt, Germany.

Dambrosio started his career at the Fiat Group where he built up a folio that includes the Alfa Romeo 159, Giulietta, and Mito from his time at Fiat Chrysler, as well as a number of concepts including the Lancia Granturismo, Alfa Romeo Kamal and Maserati MC.

He joined the Volkswagen Group in 2009, and helped influence high-profile models such as the VW Polo and Passat, Bentley Bentayga, Audi A4 and A5, and the Concept Audi TT Sportback.

One of the most striking vehicles from his portfolio is Lamborghini’s Egoista concept car, which celebrated the Italian supercar manufacturer’s 50th birthday.

“Alessandro is a very experienced and skilled designer with a long career at leading car companies,” said Tsunehiro Kunimoto, Corporate Vice President of Mitsubishi’s design division.

”I look forward to him inspiring our teams to shape the next generation of Mitsubishi Design and contributing to rebuild and enhance the Mitsubishi Motors brand.

“He is joining at an exciting time when we are working on concepts for the future of Mitsubishi Motors styling.

“With his passion and well-developed understanding of brand values, he will be an extremely valuable addition to our design team.”