Marcello Gandini, a towering figure in the world of automotive design, sadly passed away at age 85. His sudden departure occurred on Wednesday, the 13th, in Rivoli, Turin. He left a legacy that forever changed the landscape of Italian sports cars from the 1960s onwards.
Marcello Gandini: The Man Behind Iconic Italian Cars
Gandini, who took the baton from Giorgetto Giugiaro, served as the chief designer at Bertone, where he penned some of the most iconic sports cars between the sixties and seventies. His remarkable portfolio includes masterpieces such as the Lamborghini Miura, Espada, Urraco, Countach, Alfa Romeo Montreal, Lancia Stratos, Fiat X1/9, and Ferrari GT4.
Beyond his illustrious career with Bertone, Gandini’s creativity also shone through in his collaboration with Innocenti of Milan, leading to the 1974 launch of the new Mini 90/120. This model remained in production for nearly two decades, a testament to Gandini’s timeless design philosophy.
Beyond Cars: Gandini’s Impact on Industrial Design
Gandini’s interests were not confined to the automotive industry; he also significantly contributed to industrial design and furniture. His achievements were recently celebrated on January 12th, when the Polytechnic of Turin awarded him an honorary degree in Mechanical Engineering.
During the award ceremony, Gandini delivered a lectio magistralis that was met with widespread acclaim. He shared insights from his diverse educational background, including classical studies and piano school. He fondly recalled how, instead of purchasing a Latin book with the money received from his family, he acquired Dante Giacosa’s seminal work on ‘Endothermic Engines.’
Honoring a Legend: Gandini’s Recent Accolades
Even in his later years, Gandini’s passion for design never waned. He continued to leave his mark on the automotive world with celebrated models like the Lamborghini Diablo, the Maserati Biturbo, and the Chubasco.
As an independent designer, he collaborated with several international car manufacturers, including Renault, Nissan, Toyota, and Subaru. His recent endeavors focused on research and innovation, culminating in patents. Gandini was actively working on a project in Qatar for a training platform at the Doha Car Museum until his last days.
Public Remembrance: Funeral Arrangements Announced
According to RaiNews reports, a funeral chapel will be set up in Gandini’s studio in Almese, Turin, welcoming those who wish to pay their respects. The viewing will be available on Thursday (14th) from 3 pm to 7 pm and Friday morning from 10 am to 12 pm. The funeral is being organized and is expected to occur in the parish church of Santo Stefano in Rivera on Friday or Saturday morning at the latest.
Marcello Gandini leaves a rich legacy that spans automotive design and beyond. His visionary work has not only shaped the contours of many legendary vehicles but has also inspired countless designers and enthusiasts around the globe. His dedication, creativity, and impact will be remembered and celebrated for generations.
