After two decades shaping the face of Land Rover and Jaguar, British designer Gerry McGovern has departed from JLR, marking the end of an era. His 21-year tenure saw both iconic successes and a few notable missteps, solidifying his position as one of the most influential automotive designers of his generation.
From MG Revival to Modern Land Rover
McGovern’s early work demonstrates an ability to breathe life into struggling brands. While at MG, he helped create the EX-E concept car in the 1990s—a bold, supercar-inspired design that hinted at the brand’s potential. Though never produced, the EX-E foreshadowed McGovern’s talent for making striking statements.
The MG F, a mid-engined sports car developed after the EX-E, proved far more successful. It became the UK’s best-selling convertible for seven years and later evolved into the TF, offering a brief but memorable moment of triumph for MG before the company’s collapse. The F’s popularity underscores McGovern’s knack for delivering cars consumers genuinely wanted.
Reinventing Land Rover: Hits and Misses
McGovern’s greatest impact came during his time with Land Rover. He redefined the brand, moving away from utilitarian designs toward luxury and sophistication. This transformation made Land Rover a global powerhouse, yet not all his creations were universally praised.
His legacy is a mix of critical and commercial successes, proving that even the most influential designers can’t bat a thousand. McGovern’s departure marks a turning point for JLR, leaving behind a brand that is demonstrably different from the one he inherited.
McGovern’s exit signals a shift in JLR’s design direction, but his impact—both good and bad—will continue to influence the brand for years to come. His work demonstrates that automotive design is a constant evolution, with even the most acclaimed leaders leaving behind a mixed bag of results.
