Automobile Engineers

John Zachary DeLorean was an American engineer and executive in the U.S. automobile industry. He founded the DeLorean Motor Company and contributed to the development of vehicles such as the Pontiac GTO, Pontiac Firebird, and DMC DeLorean during his time at General Motors. DeLorean left GM in 1973 to start DMC, which faced production delays and financial challenges. In 1982, he was charged with cocaine trafficking but was acquitted in 1984.

Ferdinand Porsche was a celebrated automotive engineer who founded Porsche AG and created innovative vehicles such as the first gasoline-electric hybrid (Lohner-Porsche) and the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. He also made significant contributions to the German war effort during World War II by developing advanced tanks and weapon systems. Porsche received prestigious awards for his engineering achievements, including the German National Prize for Art and Science. He was posthumously recognized for his contributions to motorsports and named Car Engineer of the Century.

Gene Haas is a well-known figure in the manufacturing and motorsports sectors. As the founder and president of Haas Automation, a top CNC machine tool manufacturer, he has made notable contributions to the industry. Haas has also expanded his interests to motorsports, creating successful teams in NASCAR (now Stewart-Haas Racing) and Formula One (Haas F1 Team). His ventures exemplify his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to innovation in manufacturing and racing.

Boyd Coddington was a celebrated American hot rod designer famous for his exceptional craftsmanship and groundbreaking designs. As the owner of the Boyd Coddington Hot Rod Shop, he became well-known for crafting custom vehicles that redefined traditional hot rod aesthetics. His influential work was showcased on the television series American Hot Rod, providing viewers with a glimpse into his creative process and unwavering commitment to excellence. Coddington's lasting legacy in the automotive industry is recognized for his significant contributions to the world of hot rods.

Walter Chrysler was a trailblazer in the American automotive sector, known for his role in establishing the Chrysler Corporation. His innovative leadership and business expertise played a crucial role in shaping the automotive industry. Chrysler's contributions revolutionized technology and production practices, leaving a lasting impact on American automobiles. His vision and dedication cemented his legacy as a key figure in automotive history.

Marc Tarpenning is an American engineer and technology entrepreneur who co-founded Tesla Inc. with Martin Eberhard in 2003. He held key roles including Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Vice President of Engineering at Tesla until 2008. Prior to Tesla, Tarpenning worked at companies such as Textron, Seagate Technology, and Bechtel. He also co-founded NuvoMedia in 1997, which was later acquired for $187 million. After leaving Tesla, he provided advice to various companies and organizations, including UC Berkeley's Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship & Technology and Spero Ventures, a VC firm.

Colin Chapman, an English design engineer and founder of Lotus Cars, transformed the automotive industry by prioritizing lightweight, finely-handling cars over raw power. His aeronautical engineering background fueled technical breakthroughs and a reputation for innovative design principles. Leading Team Lotus to numerous Formula One victories, including Constructors' titles and Drivers' Championships, Chapman's legacy endures through cutting-edge yet affordable sports cars, sustaining Lotus Cars' success in a competitive industry.

Alan Roger Mulally is a highly accomplished aerospace engineer and manufacturing executive. He served in leadership roles at Boeing, including as the CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, where he played a key role in the company's resurgence against Airbus. Mulally later joined Ford Motor Company as president and CEO, successfully leading the company through the challenges of the Great Recession. His achievements at Ford are well-documented in the book "American Icon: Alan Mulally and the Fight to Save Ford Motor Company." Mulally also served on the Board of Directors of Google and was inducted into the International Air & Space Hall of Fame.

George Barris was a renowned American designer and builder famous for creating iconic custom cars for Hollywood. He established Barris Kustom Industries, which gained recognition for crafting vehicles for popular TV shows such as Batman, The Munsters, and The Beverly Hillbillies. Barris also specialized in custom cars for celebrities, private clients, and creating replicas of famous vehicles. Some of his notable creations include the Hirohata Merc, Munster Koach, DRAG-U-LA, and the 1966 Batmobile for the Batman TV series and movie.

George Mortimer Pullman was an American engineer and industrialist famous for creating the Pullman sleeping car. He established a company town in Chicago for workers, which sparked the Pullman Strike because of elevated rent costs and meager wages. In response to decreased demand, he reduced wages and extended work hours without lowering rents. The strike was forcibly ended by federal troops, leading to casualties. Ultimately, the Supreme Court mandated the Pullman Company to relinquish ownership of the company town.

Donald Glenn Garlits, also known as "Big Daddy," is an American race car driver and automotive engineer renowned in the drag racing sphere. Regarded as the father of drag racing, he is a pioneering figure in the industry. Garlits played a pivotal role in revolutionizing drag racing through his innovation of the rear-engine Top Fuel dragster, enhancing safety by positioning the driver in front of the majority of mechanical components. He holds the distinction of being the first drag racer to break numerous speed records and has been honored with inductions into multiple Halls of Fame and various awards throughout his illustrious career.

Charles F. Kettering was a renowned American inventor, engineer, and businessman recognized for his significant contributions to automotive and industrial progress. With 186 patents to his name, he played a crucial role in the development of innovations such as the electrical starting motor, leaded gasoline, Freon refrigerant, Duco lacquers, and the "Bug" aerial torpedo. His work at Delco and General Motors, along with his advancements in diesel engine technology and impartial research through the Kettering Foundation, established him as a trailblazer across various industries.

Sir Frederick Henry Royce was an English engineer known for his innovative designs of car and airplane engines, emphasizing reliability and durability. He co-founded Rolls-Royce with Charles Rolls and Claude Johnson, focusing initially on large motor cars such as the Silver Ghost before expanding into aircraft engines during World War I. Royce's leadership led to aircraft engines becoming the company's primary focus. His legacy includes significant advancements in automotive and aviation engineering until his passing in 1933.

Harley Jarvis Earl was an influential American automotive designer and business executive. He led the design department at General Motors and made history as the first top design executive at a major corporation in America. Earl was an innovative industrial designer who transformed transportation design with his use of techniques like freeform sketching and hand sculpted clay models. He popularized the concept car as a design tool and marketing strategy, with his creation of the groundbreaking Buick Y-Job. Earl played a key role in shaping iconic vehicles such as the Chevrolet Corvette and introducing tailfins into automotive styling. Additionally, he made significant contributions to camouflage technology during World War II.

Henry Martyn Leland was a renowned American machinist, inventor, engineer, and automotive entrepreneur, instrumental in establishing the iconic luxury automotive brands Cadillac and Lincoln. His engineering skills and innovative approach significantly influenced the American automotive industry, setting high standards for luxury vehicles. Through his commitment to excellence and precision engineering, Cadillac and Lincoln became synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. Leland's contributions have had a lasting impact on the automotive world, shaping the practices of generations of car manufacturers.

Zora Arkus-Duntov, a celebrated engineer, is recognized for his major impact on the Chevrolet Corvette, earning him the moniker "Father of the Corvette." Although not the creator of the Corvette, his contributions were instrumental in defining the legendary sports car. Additionally, he excelled as a talented racing driver, competing in prestigious races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and securing class victories in 1954 and 1955. Arkus-Duntov's professional heritage is defined by his groundbreaking engineering advancements and notable success in racing.

Harry Ferguson was a British mechanic and inventor famous for his significant contributions to the modern agricultural tractor and its three-point linkage system. He was the first individual in Ireland to construct and pilot his own aircraft. Ferguson also achieved success in the automotive industry by developing the pioneering four-wheel drive Formula One car, the Ferguson P99. His inventive designs and engineering proficiency have had a lasting influence on the realms of agriculture, aviation, and automotive technology.

Ferry Porsche, an Austrian-German automobile designer and entrepreneur, played a crucial role in shaping the automotive industry. He led Porsche AG in Stuttgart, Germany, working closely with his father, Ferdinand Porsche Sr., a respected automobile engineer. Ferry Porsche's significant contributions include the design and production of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. After World War II, he guided the company to become a prominent sports car manufacturer, successfully navigating postwar obstacles to establish a solid position in the automotive market.

Siegfried Marcus, a German inventor, is celebrated for inventing the first petrol-powered vehicle in 1864 while living in Vienna, Austria. His pioneering work in automotive engineering played a crucial role in shaping modern transportation technology. Marcus's significant contributions to the evolution of motor vehicles have left a lasting impression on the automotive industry, highlighting his expertise and innovative mindset. His revolutionary invention represented a major milestone in the history of transportation and has been a source of inspiration for advancements in automotive design and engineering.

Giotto Bizzarrini was an Italian automobile engineer who was active in the industry from the 1950s to the 1970s. He started his career as a test driver at Alfa Romeo before moving to Ferrari, where he eventually became the sports car development chief. In 1961, he left Ferrari and established his own company, initially called Società Autostar and later renamed Bizzarrini. Throughout his career, he collaborated on projects with companies such as Iso, Lamborghini, and Alfa Romeo. His legacy continued with concept cars named after him in the 2000s.

Leepu Nizamuddin Awlia, known as Leepu, is a Bangladeshi-born-American automotive designer and coachbuilder renowned for creating imitation supercars from older models. His professional life is characterized by a unique approach to car design, blending creativity and innovation to transform outdated vehicles into eye-catching supercars. Leepu's work has gained recognition for its distinctive style and has garnered him a reputation as a skilled craftsman in the automotive industry. His passion for breathing new life into old cars has made him a prominent figure in the world of automotive design.

Josef Ganz was a trailblazing car designer recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to the automotive industry. He championed the development of compact, budget-friendly vehicles through his advocacy of sleek designs and rear-engine configurations. As the chief editor of a motoring publication, Ganz played a pivotal role in the inception of the Volkswagen Beetle. His engineering prowess and commitment to making transportation more accessible sparked a revolution in the automotive sector, shaping the future of car design for generations to come.

Fritz von Opel achieved fame for his groundbreaking work in developing rocket-powered ground and air vehicles, earning him the moniker "Rocket Fritz." His demonstrations of these innovative vehicles not only highlighted cutting-edge technology but also effectively boosted his family's automotive business through successful publicity stunts. Von Opel's significant contributions to rocket propulsion and his strategic utilization of these advancements for promotional purposes have had a lasting influence on the automotive industry.

Major Ivan Hirst played a crucial role in revitalizing Volkswagen after World War II. He transformed the Volkswagen factory in Wolfsburg, Germany, into a major automotive manufacturer through innovative strategies and strong leadership. Hirst's contributions were instrumental in establishing Volkswagen as a key player in the postwar automotive industry, shaping its future trajectory significantly.

Emil Ritter von Škoda was a Bohemian engineer and industrialist known for founding Škoda Works, the predecessor of today's Škoda Auto and Škoda Transportation. Starting as the chief engineer of a machine factory in Pilsen, he later acquired and expanded the facility. Škoda established a railway connection and arms factory, manufacturing machine guns for the Austro-Hungarian Army. His business evolved into the Škoda Works, renowned for arms production in both World Wars and a range of industrial and transportation products.

Frederick W. Lanchester was an accomplished English polymath and engineer recognized for his substantial advancements in automotive engineering and aerodynamics. He was instrumental in the progress of British motor cars, founding a prosperous car company and earning acclaim as a leading car engineer in England. Lanchester also co-created the field of operations research, showcasing his inventive approach and adept problem-solving abilities. Teaming up with renowned figures such as Harry Ricardo and Henry Royce, he left a lasting imprint on the automotive sector through his groundbreaking contributions and specialized knowledge.

Gabriel Voisin was a French aviation pioneer who made significant contributions to both the aviation and automotive industries. He designed Europe's first manned, engine-powered aircraft capable of sustained flight and later produced military aircraft during World War I. Voisin's innovative engineering skills led his company to become a major military aircraft producer, playing a vital role in the war effort. After the war, he turned his attention to creating luxury automobiles under the brand Avions Voisin, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the automotive sector.

Alexandre Darracq was a prominent French investor, engineer, cycle manufacturer, and automobile manufacturer. By 1904, he played a key role in the French automobile industry, producing more than ten percent of all vehicles in the country. Darracq's business success led him to sell a significant portion of his company to British investors. Despite challenges with the rotary valve engine he introduced, Darracq remained dedicated to its production. He expanded his ventures to Italy, where he established Società Anonima Italiana Darracq, which later evolved into Alfa Romeo.

Dante Giacosa was a renowned Italian automobile designer and engineer credited with refining the front-wheel drive layout to an industry-standard configuration. His contributions to Italian automobile designs have had a lasting impact on the industry. Giacosa was known as the deus ex machina of Fiat, underlining his crucial role in the company's success. His expertise and innovative approach solidified his legacy as a pioneering figure in the automotive world.

Alexander Winton was a Scottish-American innovator in the automotive industry, recognized for his work as a designer, inventor, businessman, and racecar driver. He established the Winton Motor Carriage Company in 1897, contributing significantly to Cleveland, Ohio's emergence as a key hub for early automotive production. Winton's notable achievements include undertaking one of the earliest long-distance car trips in the U.S. and creating early commercial diesel engines. Shifting his focus to powertrain engineering, he eventually sold his company to General Motors in 1930.

Ulrich Bez, a German businessman, made significant contributions to the automotive industry. He was the CEO of Aston Martin motorcars until 2013, when he became the non-executive chairman. Bez's leadership led to growth and success for Aston Martin, establishing it as a prestigious luxury car brand. His strategic vision and expertise have had a lasting impact on the automotive world.

Vincent Hugo Bendix was a prominent American inventor and industrialist recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to the automotive and aviation sectors in the 1920s and 1930s. He emerged as a respected figure in these industries, driving technological progress and fostering innovation. Bendix's influence was profound, as he spearheaded the development of critical technologies and products that left a lasting impact on the sectors he influenced. His enduring legacy as a forward-thinker and trailblazer remains acknowledged in the fields of automotive and aviation engineering.

Ernst Loof, a distinguished automotive engineer and racing driver from Germany, made a significant impact on the development of the iconic BMW 328 sports car in the late 1930s. His expertise and innovative input into the design of the BMW 328 were instrumental in establishing it as a successful and influential sports car of its era. Loof's professional career was marked by his commitment to engineering excellence and his drive to push the boundaries of automotive technology through his work with BMW.

J. Frank Duryea, an American engineer and inventor, is renowned for developing the first gasoline-powered automobile in the United States. Alongside his brother, Charles, Duryea's groundbreaking invention transformed transportation and played a crucial role in shaping the automotive industry. Throughout his career, Duryea's innovative mindset and engineering skills led to substantial advancements in the automotive sector. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern automobile technology, establishing him as a trailblazer in the history of transportation.

Émile Levassor was a renowned French engineer who made significant contributions to the automobile industry and car racing in France during the late 19th century. He was instrumental in advancing the modern automobile through his innovative engine and vehicle designs. Levassor's engineering prowess and trailblazing approach positioned France as a prominent player in the automotive realm. His lasting legacy encompasses advancements in engine design, automotive technology, and racing that continue to shape the industry today.

Fabio Taglioni, an influential Italian engineer, made significant contributions to Ducati motorcycles during his tenure as chief designer and technical director from 1954 to 1989. He is well-known for his innovative desmodromic 90° V-twin engine design, which has become a signature feature of Ducati engines. Taglioni's work includes designing the iconic Ducati 750 Imola Desmo and the production Ducati L-twin motorcycles of the 1970s and 1980s. His engineering expertise and lasting legacy continue to influence Ducati's motorcycle designs today.

Reem Al Marzouqi is an accomplished Emirati engineer known for her groundbreaking inventions and contributions to the field of automotive engineering. She gained recognition for designing a unique car control system that allows for hands-free driving, receiving patents in the US and Japan. With a background in architectural engineering, she has excelled in various competitions and exhibitions, showcasing her problem-solving skills and innovation. She has been involved in high-profile projects at Abu Dhabi Airport, working towards enhancing aviation infrastructure. Al Marzouqi's professional journey is marked by achievements, accolades, and a commitment to technological advancement.

Claude-François-Dorothée, marquis de Jouffroy d'Abbans was a celebrated French naval architect and engineer who invented the first steamboat. His groundbreaking work transformed the maritime industry and was a key factor in the onset of the first industrial revolution. By introducing steam propulsion to water transport, he opened doors to new developments and improved global connectivity. His achievements in naval engineering and his innovative mindset serve as a source of inspiration and continue to influence the progress of marine technology.

René Panhard was a French engineer and pioneer in the automobile industry. He graduated from École Centrale Paris and began his career in a firm producing wood-working machines, where he met Émile Levassor. In 1889, he joined forces with Levassor and Edouard Sarazin to establish the Panhard & Levassor car company. Together, they designed the first Daimler car engine in 1891 and achieved success in various automobile races. Following Levassor's passing in 1897, Panhard carried on developing automobiles with his son. He also served as the mayor of Thiais and received a grand prize in 1904.

Ed Donovan, also known as "The Mole" or "Pachy," was a renowned American racing engine and parts builder. He gained recognition for creating the first all-aluminum-block hemi engine tailored for Top Fuel drag racing, revolutionizing the industry. His innovative designs and contributions to the field solidified his status as a pioneer in high-performance racing engines. Donovan's impact was further acknowledged posthumously when he was honored with induction into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2003, cementing his legacy in the motorsports world.

John Heinricy is a U.S. automotive engineer and racecar driver known for his notable career at General Motors. He held the position of Director of the GM Performance Division before retiring in 2008. Heinricy achieved a sub-8-minute lap time in a 2009 Cadillac CTS-V at the Nürburgring, showcasing his exceptional driving skills. His expertise in automotive engineering and passion for high-performance vehicles have solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the automotive industry.