He started in 1989 at Peugeot to implement the numerical tools to help designers.
Then he worked on the design of the 206 and the 406 before building his independent design studio. He returned to Peugeot in late 2002 as Welter’s replacement.
Driving Vision News interviewed Gallix; the totality of the interview will be in the PSA report available on the 6th of May on website: www.DrivingVisionNews.com.
What does Gallix retain of his independent design firm?
It was a Design Office working mainly for Peugeot and Mercedes during 7 years.
First, I was impressed by Mercedes’ speed to take a decision and stick to it without changing this decision. These 2 points are essential to go rapidly.
An example about Headlamps:
On one project, it was very difficult to introduce the headlamp in the body because there was not enough room. Too many suppliers search to explain why it is impossible to succeed.
What will stay the same and what will change after G. Welter’s departure?
No change on the front end; we will not touch the headlamp design. Gerard referred to it as the eyes of Sophia Loren. I tend to call it the eyes of Monica Bellucci. This is the change I want to manage.
I will introduce more harmony in Peugeot’s design.The brand’s aggressive-looking grille may be softened but the headlights will remain untouched…it is always difficult to change things overnight.
I consider the style like a number 1 condition but it is not enough.
The style needs technical innovations. It is the consequence of an exchange with engineering, production, marketing and international. The designer has to do the synthesis of all these needs
What is the perceived Quality for you?
Perceived quality is a key point for Peugeot.
– Lens transparency
– Internal headlamp or rear lamp: Bezel, material appearance, coherence
– Periphery, gap between lens and body, integration in the body
– Switch on appearance which is the revolution of perceived quality.
Technology and style are going together. The headlamp is becoming the lever to show technology and style. This is now the priority of Peugeot. We want to give a night-time signature from the headlamps. You will see how very soon!
What advice would you give to lighting suppliers?
I have 2 important bits of advice for these companies:
1) Put the priority to reduce volume, mainly depth.
There was not in the last 5 years any innovation on depth reduction of headlamp compared to the packaging reductions of other components. The target of LED has to be depth reduction before styling and performances. What I want is a small functional light to save room and a styling appearance around this functional light
2) Never say “it is impossible” or “it is too expensive” in front of an innovation.
Work on it, make a mock-up, work with customer and then the decision will be taken by both car maker and supplier.
