Volvo Cars has announced the return of Thomas Ingenlath as Chief Design Officer, effective 1 February 2026, signaling a renewed focus on the design-led identity that has become a hallmark of the brand. Ingenlath will join the Executive Management Team and oversee Volvo Cars’ global design organisation across its full product portfolio.
“I am delighted to be returning to Volvo Cars. Design is fundamental to what Volvo stands for. I look forward to working closely with the teams across the company, developing cars that are distinct, relevant and true to the Volvo brand,” says Ingenlath.
Ingenlath previously served as Senior Vice President of Design at Volvo Cars, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s modern Scandinavian design identity. More recently, as CEO of Polestar, he transformed the performance brand into a design-led, electrified vehicle company, translating bold, progressive ideas into production models in a highly competitive market.
Håkan Samuelsson, CEO of Volvo Cars, praised Ingenlath’s appointment: “Design is one of Volvo Cars’ greatest strengths and will continue to differentiate us in shaping the future of premium, electric mobility. Thomas Ingenlath will strengthen our design leadership with his proven experience and vision, ensuring we continue to design cars that reflect our values and resonate with customers around the world.”
Volvo Cars also extended its thanks to Nicholas Gronenthal, who served as Interim Head of Global Design, for his leadership during the transition. Gronenthal has been appointed Head of Design Americas, a move that underscores Volvo Cars’ commitment to nurturing design talent globally.
With Ingenlath back at the helm, Volvo Cars is set to reaffirm its position at the forefront of automotive design, marrying Scandinavian elegance with cutting-edge, electrified mobility.
