Volvo Cars said it has appointed Thomas Ingenlath as its new Chief Design Officer, effective Feb. 1, 2026, bringing back a senior executive who played a central role in shaping the Swedish automaker’s modern design identity.
Ingenlath previously served as Volvo Cars’ Senior Vice President of Design from 2012 to 2017, overseeing the development of models such as the XC40, XC90 and S90/V90. He later became chief executive of Polestar after the performance-focused electric vehicle brand was spun off from Volvo Cars. During his tenure at Polestar, Ingenlath was responsible for the Polestar 1 and Polestar 2, both of which originated as Volvo design concepts.
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“I am delighted to be returning to Volvo Cars. Design is fundamental to what Volvo stands for,” Ingenlath said. “I look forward to working closely with the teams across the company, developing cars that are distinct, relevant, and true to the Volvo brand.”
Volvo Cars said the appointment is intended to strengthen its design leadership as the company continues its transition toward electrification and software-led vehicles. The automaker’s current design language, introduced with the second-generation XC90 in 2015, has been carried through much of its lineup, including newer electric models such as the EX90.
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Håkan Samuelsson, chief executive of Volvo Cars, said Ingenlath’s return would help ensure continuity while supporting the brand’s future ambitions. “Design is one of Volvo Cars’ greatest strengths and will continue to differentiate us in shaping the future of premium, electric mobility,” Samuelsson said. “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.”
Ingenlath will succeed the company’s current interim design leadership structure. Volvo Cars did not provide further details on potential changes to its design strategy following his appointment.