Russia has acquired one of the most renowned automotive designers of our time. And this could turn out to be far more significant than it seems at first glance.
BMW X5 (E70) and first BMW X6 designer, former head of BMW M division Pierre Leclercq officially became a citizen of Russia. Vladimir Putin signed the decree on granting citizenship.
Leclercq is one of the designers who shaped the look of premium crossovers at the beginning of the 21st century. After BMW, he worked at Great Wall, led the design of Kia, and then took the position of chief designer at Citroën.
Why is this news important?
In the modern automotive industry, design is not just the appearance of a car. It is a strategic advantage that directly affects sales, brand recognition, and competitiveness in the global market.
If the expertise of a specialist of this level is in demand in Russian automotive projects, it could be a step toward creating more competitive models with their own recognizable style.
It is too early to say which specific projects await Pierre Leclercq in Russia, but the very fact that one of the most renowned automotive designers of recent decades has been granted citizenship has already become a notable event for the global automotive industry.
