Hyundai Motor Group Loses Luc Donckerwolke As Chief Designer Steps Down

Famous Belgian car designer Luc Donckerwolke has resigned from the top design job at Hyundai, Kia and Genesis four and a half years after he was appointed to the position.

According to AutoNews, which quotes an internal note, his resignation is due to personal reasons and becomes effective on Wednesday (April 29, 2020). “It’s been an honor and privilege to contribute to the shaping of the future of Hyundai, Kia and Genesis”, Donckerwolke said in a statement. “Their audacious and progressive attitude has allowed me to push the boundaries and challenge the status quo.”

Donckerwolke joined Hyundai at the end of 2015, when he left the Volkswagen Group, and penned the Kona and Palisade, among other vehicles. He also helped shape Genesis, giving it a unique identity that draws a clear line between the new luxury car brand and Hyundai. He designed the G80 and G90 sedans, as well as the GV80 SUV.

Video: Let Luc Donckerwolke Give You A Tour Of Hyundai’s Sexy Prophecy EV Concept

His contribution at the Hyundai Motor Group was praised by Albert Biermann, chief of the Research and Development division, who said: “He has been a great inspiration for all of us, as a remarkable leader who successfully transformed the company’s design operations, taking it to the next level.”

The news outlet states that Hyundai will not name a new design chief for the whole group, as the design for the Hyundai and Genesis brands will continue to be led by Sang Yup Lee. Karim Habib, on the other hand, who joined the Korean company last year, will still lead the Kia brand.

Donckerwolke started his career in design back in 1990 with Peugeot. Two years later, he moved under the Volkswagen Group’s roof, where he penned the first-gen Skoda Octavia and Fabia. He also helped shape the Audi A4 Avant, R8 Le Mans racer and A2, as well as the Lamborghini Diablo VT, Murcielago and Gallardo.

The 55-year old Belgian was also responsible for the Seat Ibiza Mk4, Tribu and IBE concepts, as well as Bentley Flying Spur and EXP 10 Speed 6.