SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 3, 2025 – In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, few names spark excitement like Gilles Vidal. Stellantis has just confirmed that Vidal will take the wheel as Head of Design for its European Brands starting October 1st — and for design-savvy drivers, this signals a fresh chapter of creativity and reinvention across some of Europe’s most beloved car marques.
With over 30 years of experience crafting some of the most celebrated vehicles on the road, Vidal isn’t just stepping into a leadership role — he’s returning to familiar territory, bringing his artistic vision full circle. After five years with Renault Group, he's back where much of his legendary design journey began, ready to breathe new life into brands like Peugeot, Opel, Citroën, and more.
Why This Matters to Drivers, Not Just Designers
While executive shifts can seem distant from everyday life, this one has real implications for consumers. Gilles Vidal is responsible for creating cars that didn’t just turn heads — they turned the automotive world around. The Peugeot 208, 308, and 3008, for example, weren’t just bestsellers — they were European Cars of the Year. Their smart lines, intuitive design, and unique visual flair redefined what mainstream cars could look and feel like.
For anyone shopping for a new vehicle in the next few years, this leadership change could shape:
- How future Stellantis models look, inside and out
- How connected, digital, and intuitive these vehicles feel
- How classic brand DNA is preserved while still pushing boundaries
Blending Legacy With Lifestyle
Vidal’s return signals a thoughtful fusion of tradition and innovation. According to Stellantis’ Enlarged Europe COO Jean-Philippe Imparato, “His deep understanding of European automotive culture and his forward-thinking design philosophy will be essential as we continue to redefine mobility and strengthen the identity of our European brands.”
That’s not just corporate talk — it means future cars under Vidal’s watch are likely to look sharper, feel more intuitive, and connect more deeply with modern lifestyles. Whether you drive a compact city car or a family-friendly SUV, expect thoughtful details and bold aesthetics that make everyday driving feel a little more exciting.
Editorial Perspective: Why Gilles Vidal is a Big Deal
In a market flooded with increasingly similar-looking EVs and digital dashboards, design matters more than ever. Drivers today aren’t just comparing horsepower or range — they’re choosing cars that feel like extensions of their personalities. And that’s where Vidal excels.
His signature?
- Clarity in form: No unnecessary lines or clutter
- Driver-focused interiors: Clean interfaces and intuitive layouts
- A balance of emotion and function: Making utility beautiful
With a portfolio that’s won ten design awards — five of them being European Car of the Year — Vidal’s track record isn’t just impressive, it’s inspiring.
A Hand-Off Between Visionaries
Vidal steps into the shoes of Jean-Pierre Ploué, who led Stellantis through a critical era of brand revitalization. Ralph Gilles, Stellantis Chief Design Officer, praised the transition: “Gilles will build on the outstanding work carried out by Jean-Pierre Ploué, whom I salute for contributing to the revival and development of many of our brands and products.”
That’s a passing of the torch, not a reset. Consumers can expect continuity, but with a fresh creative spark that makes future models even more exciting to own.
A Shared Mission for a New Era
In his own words, Vidal expressed his excitement: “In a world where technology and design should walk hand in hand to transform customer experience, I am excited with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
It’s a statement that goes beyond design — it’s about how cars integrate into our digital, sustainable, emotionally connected lives.
Mini features comparison: Design Legacies that left a mark
Peugeot 3008 (Vidal)
- Sleek, futuristic crossover styling
- Floating i-Cockpit interior
- Won European Car of the Year 2017
Renault Mégane E-Tech (Post-Vidal)
- High-tech EV platform
- More experimental design touches
- Targeted at urban tech enthusiasts
What to Expect Next?
- Refined electrified models under familiar badges
- Bolder use of lighting, materials, and space
- European personality with global flair
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just about a new executive role — it’s about how cars will look and feel across Europe in the next five years. If you care about design, identity, and the emotional experience of driving, keep your eyes on what Stellantis unveils under Vidal’s guidance. Chances are, your next car might just be one of his masterpieces.
Learn more at www.stellantis.com