Elwood Engel
Introduce
Elwood Paul Engel (February 10, 1917 – June 24, 1986) was a prominent American automotive designer who served as Chrysler Corporation’s design chief from 1961 to 1974. Engel is most notable for his work during a transformative period in automotive design, leaving an indelible mark on the look and feel of Chrysler’s vehicles during the 1960s and early 1970s.
Born in 1917, Engel began his career in design at General Motors’ School of Design, under the mentorship of Harley Earl. During World War II, he served as a mapmaker in both the European and Pacific theaters, but upon returning home, he reconnected with fellow designer Joe Oros. The two worked together at George W. Walker’s design firm, where Engel was involved in a variety of projects, including designs for farm equipment and household items. When Walker secured a contract with Ford Motor Company, Engel and Oros transitioned to designing automobiles full-time. Engel focused on Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, and the trio at Ford was instrumental in the dramatic, chrome-laden designs of the late 1950s.
In 1961, Engel moved to Chrysler, replacing Virgil Exner, who had previously been known for his “Forward Look” designs of the 1950s. Engel brought a new aesthetic to Chrysler, favoring a more minimalist, slab-sided look, which contrasted with the era of tail fins. This shift was exemplified in the design of the 1961 Lincoln Continental, a project Engel had worked on while at Ford. Engel’s design language helped to revitalize Chrysler’s image, including overseeing the iconic 1963 Chrysler Turbine car, a groundbreaking project that captured the imagination of the public.
Engel retired from Chrysler in 1973 but remained a consultant for the company until 1974. He passed away in 1986 after a battle with cancer. Engel’s legacy in automotive design remains highly regarded for his contributions to both Ford and Chrysler, shaping the industry’s aesthetic direction during a pivotal time.
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