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January 26, 2015
An Interview with Gerry McGovern, Range Rover's Designer | Range Rover
Range Rover
An Interview with Range Rover Designer Gerry McGovern
Designer Gerry McGovern, who shot to fame with the stylish SUV Range Rover EvoqueRange Rover Vogue,Range Rover Voguethe representative model of the fourth-generation Range Rover, also bears his signature. Tatsuya Ku嶋 interviewed McGovern, the man behind the current image of Range Rover.
Text by Tatsuya Kushima
Boldly Embracing Tradition and Innovation
Gerry McGovern is named by Marek Reichman, currently in charge of Aston Martin's design, as one of the most noteworthy car designers today. He showed us his self-designed home on an iPad; it was a modern structure that looked like it belonged in a Hollywood film.
In recent years, the car that garnered significant attention from his designs was the Range Rover Evoque.There's little need to say much about this car, but it's also memorable that it garnered attention again at this year's Beijing Motor Show with the collaboration model with Victoria Beckham.
And this time,Paris Salonat thethe fourth-generation "Range Rover Vogue"was unveiled. What theme did he use for his sketches to bring it to completion?
──What are the key design points of the new Range Rover Vogue?
It's a car that must be designed with great care.
The market is conservative, but we must also incorporate new elements. It's crucial to determine how much of the existing DNA to retain and carry forward. If the DNA is too generic, it loses its effectiveness. Furthermore, avoiding excess is important. The design requires understatement rather than being progressive.
──How does it differ from the Evoque?
That's precisely it. The markets are different. The Evoque was created for a new market, but the Vogue is not. The key is how the existing market reacts. Therefore, certain elements must be immediately recognizable as having a 42-year history. Its role differs from the Evoque. In that sense, the next "Range Rover Sport" will likely be more progressive.
──When did the design for the new model begin?
The design wasn't initiated by a sudden project. It's part of a long-term vision, with a set schedule, and we're always thinking about it.
──What's new within the subtle changes?
The roofline is lower than the previous model, and the proportions are more flowing. This gives the impression of a smaller car. Additionally, the wheelbase has been extended, which was done with family use in mind. We've balanced aerodynamics with practicality. Even with a lower roof, the seat structure itself was modified to maintain headroom. The command driving position is 20mm lower than before.
──The body is now made of aluminum; does this relate to the design as well?
I believe it has resulted in a smoother surface.
This is also important in the production process and a key factor in realizing a beautiful design. As it's a soft material, the smoothness of the joints is also a characteristic. Please consider the seamless panoramic roof as part of this overall smoothness.
──Finally, was there anything that inspired you when designing this car?
For the fine details, there are various inspirations, such as luxury watches, suits, and jewelry. In other words, products considered "good" or "excellent" in our daily lives.
I think this is very understandable for our customers, as they also appreciate these things. There's a sense of luxury there. We've already received positive feedback from current owners, so we're looking forward to the launch.

