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Saab signs new chief designer
21 June 2010
American Jason Castriota is the new head of Saab's design team.
The 36-year-old is best known for designing the one-off Ferrari P4/5 by Pininfarina and Maserati GranTurismo, and his first task at Saab will be to design the new 93.
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“It's absolutely vital we get this car [the 93] right,” said Castriota said following his appointment. “This is Saab returning to its roots, not having to worry about being part of a much larger machine that they were before in the GM organisation.”
Saab aims to become profitable by 2012, which is when the 93 is due for release.
Castriota first worked at Pininfarina in 2011, where he stayed until 2008. He then worked for Stile Bertone in Italy until September 2009, where he was responsible for last year's Mantide concept.
Last December, he started his own firm, Jason Castriota Designs, employing five designers in New York and Turin.
Castriota also confirmed Saab's plans to build a city car would be part of his brief. Saab is reported to be talking to BMW about platform and powertrain sharing for the car.
“A small premium car from Saab is a very important vehicle and is something that could truly help the overall production volume of Saab in a great way,” Castriota said.
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