Ford has confirmed that Volvo ’s design chief, Steve Mattin, has resigned from his position at the company. Mattin had influence on the design of the C30 hatchback and was instrumental in designing the sleek XC60 crossover, as well as the 2011 S60 Concept. The news comes amid an increased effort by Ford to sell the Swedish automaker to another company.
Details about Mattin’s departure have not been disclosed. It’s possible he was unhappy with the list of firms in the bidding for Volvo , or his decision to leave could be completely unrelated to the sale of the company.
Mattin joined Volvo in 2005 after 17 years at Mercedes-Benz . He is credited with the design of numerous Mercedes models, including the S-, SL-, and SLK-Class, the exotic SLR, the popular M-Class, the controversial R-Class, and the Maybach 57 and 62.
With the design of the new S60 complete, there’s no doubt it will come to market as planned. But it’s not known what other future cars Mattin might have influenced, and if the company’s design direction will change with his departure.
