Marc Deschamps

Marc Deschamps, born in Belgium in 1944, is a relatively lesser-known yet influential figure in the world of automotive design. His early career saw him working with major automotive companies like Peugeot and Simca, where he honed his skills. His connection to Italian car manufacturers was facilitated by French journalist Jean Bernardet, which eventually led to him joining the renowned Italian design house Ghia. However, his time at Ghia was short-lived due to a clash with the volatile owner, Alejandro de Tomaso.

Deschamps then moved to Bertone in Turin, but his stay was brief as well, as it was perhaps too early in his career to truly thrive at such a high-profile company. Seeking a fresh start, he transitioned to working with Guy Ligier, assisting in the development of Ligier’s sports and Grand Prix cars, which helped him gain more practical experience in the world of motorsport.

In 1976, Deschamps’s career took a significant turn when he met Robert Opron, which led to him joining Renault. At Renault, Deschamps played a pivotal role in designing the iconic Renault 5 Turbo, a car that would go on to leave a lasting impression on the automotive world.

In 1979, when Marcello Gandini left Bertone, Deschamps returned to the company for a second time, this time as Chief Designer under the direction of Nuccio Bertone. He worked at Bertone until 1992, contributing to several significant designs during his tenure.

In 1992, Deschamps’s career took another turn when he founded a design center for Heuliez in Turin, further establishing his reputation as a prominent car designer. Deschamps’s career, marked by his stints at major design houses and automotive companies, reflects his enduring influence on the world of car design, even if he remains somewhat underappreciated compared to some of his more famous peers.