Top British designer Martin Smith has been confirmed as the new director of design at Adam Opel in Germany.

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Smith, 52, succeeds Hans Seer who retires from GM after a career of over 40 years.


Smith’s appointment is effective immediately and he will work from the design studio at Russelsheim.


Since joining the company in 1997, Smith has held the position of vehicle line design director responsible for the Opel/Vauxhall Astra and its derivatives. He has also played a key role in the improvement of interior design quality as head of the cross carline studio, and led the design direction for the VX 220, G-90 and Snowtrekker concept vehicles.


Following graduation from the Royal College of Art in London, Smith’s career in the car industry has included positions at Porsche and Audi where he was responsible for the design of the original Quattro.

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