Volvo's new design chief seeks timeless look

Volvo's new chief designer Steve Mattin spoke with Automotive News Staff Reporter Mark Rechtin about his new job. Mattin comes from Mercedes-Benz, where he was responsible for the current S-Class, E-Class and A-Class cars. In an effort to leverage the company's "huge" brand potential, he hopes to make future Volvos more distinctive and recognizable. On the topic of future products, Mattin said, "Some future products are already frozen, but we are trying to modify them to make them better." One area of interest for Mattin is the exterior lights. "Lights are as much the face of the car as the grille. It's a thing you remember and notice. There is a recognizability factor, and Volvo hasn't really done anything in that area."