The ID.7 was praised for possessing no obvious weaknesses and offering a quiet confidence that is so often synonymous with Volkswagen cars. “This big electric car begs to be underestimated; it is subtle, restrained and – dare we say it – classy,” said the judges. “This is an electric saloon that makes few, if any, demands of its driver, combining superb road manners with intuitive driveability that makes any journey a cinch. It really is excellent.”
The award for Andreas Mindt was a reflection of the German design maestro’s immediate impact since he re-joined the brand in 2023, and for a 31-year career that has spawned modern-day classics including the Volkswagen Golf Mk VII, the Audi e-tron GT – while spearheading a realignment of the brand’s exterior design – and the limited-run Bentley Batur, which helped chart the brand’s future electric models.
Mark Tisshaw, Autocar Editor, said: “Andreas Mindt is sparking fresh life into one of the world’s biggest car brands. Upon his return to Wolfsburg in February 2023 he had just weeks to pen the ID. 2all, a machine that neatly balanced modern design with retro flourishes and was incredibly well received. The concept was upbeat, friendly and infectiously enthusiastic – much like the man who led its design.
“Andreas has had an immediate impact upon his return and Volkswagen cars are embracing the brand’s traditions without getting stuck in the past – which is why we have named him our Design Hero for 2024.”
After collecting his award, Andreas said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Design Hero award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Together, we found a way to design the true Volkswagen, which is characterised by our design values: Stable, Likeable, and Secret Sauce. Our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating vehicles that resonate with our customers have driven us to achieve this milestone.”
One of the biggest events on the automotive calendar, the Autocar Awards recognise the industry’s highest achievers, including heroes from the design, engineering and motorsport worlds, as well as the best cars people can buy in the UK in a wide variety of categories.
Commenting on the awards, Volkswagen UK Director Rod McLeod said: “We are very pleased that Autocar – the world’s oldest, and one of the most respected, motoring titles – has presented Volkswagen and Andreas Mindt with these awards.
“The ID.7 is our top-of-the-range electric car and encompasses everything that people love about Volkswagen. It offers luxury with engineering excellence and appealing everyday practicality, and it is leading the charge towards e-mobility. It is also fantastic news that Andreas has won the Design Hero award, which is so richly deserved.”
