Tobias Sühlmann, a seasoned automotive designer with experience from top-tier brands like Bugatti and Aston Martin, is set to become the new design boss at Porsche. He will succeed Michael Mauer, who led the design team for nearly two decades, as the fourth head of design in the brand's history.
Mauer's departure marks an exciting transition period for Porsche, with Sühlmann bringing fresh perspectives to the table. As a former colleague of newly-installed CEO Michael Leiters at McLaren, Sühlmann's hiring is not entirely unexpected.
His extensive background in designing innovative vehicles and his experience working on high-profile projects like the Solus GT and Taycan make him an ideal candidate for the role. With Porsche undergoing significant changes in its product lineup, including a shift towards SUVs, sedans, and electric vehicles, Sühlmann will be tasked with bringing new ideas to the table while maintaining the brand's signature design DNA.
Mauer himself has had a profound impact on Porsche's design philosophy, leading projects like the 918 Spyder and Panamera, which have become synonymous with the brand's iconic style. As he hands over the reins, Sühlmann will be working closely with Mauer during this transitional period to ensure a seamless transition.
The new design boss comes from a background that includes stints at Volkswagen, Bugatti, Aston Martin, and Bentley, where he was significantly involved in the design of the Batur. With his diverse experience and passion for innovative design, Sühlmann is poised to make a lasting impact on Porsche's future product lineup.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how Sühlmann's unique perspective shapes the brand's design direction.
With the departure of Michael Mauer, Porsche has an opportunity to refresh its design language while maintaining its core identity. It will be interesting to see how Tobias Sühlmann balances innovative ideas with the need to preserve the brand's heritage and timeless appeal.
