Automobili Pininfarina appoints Paolo Dellacha as its new CEO

Paolo Dellachà has been appointed to the position of CEO at Italian luxury carmaker Automobili Pininfarina, a promotion from his current role as Chief Product and Engineering Officer.

The announcement by parent company, Mahindra & Mahindra, sees Dellachà succeed Per Svantesson. The former CEO retires from Automobili Pininfarina following the successful launch of its first luxury car, the Battista pure-electric hyper GT. Production of the most powerful Italian sports car ever produced began in the summer of 2022.

Dellachà is a highly experienced engineer and previously held senior positions at Ferrari and Maserati, before joining Automobili Pininfarina in 2018 as part of the management team responsible for the launch of the new Italian carmaker.

New Automobili Pininfarina CEO Paolo Dellachà said: “I am very grateful for the opportunity to lead Automobili Pininfarina into its next phase of evolution. As a proud Italian, the legacy of Pininfarina is always an inspiration to me. The Battista was named in honour of the founder of this revered brand and it has been my privilege to oversee a highly-talented technical team throughout its successful development.

“Now we will take the opportunity to enhance the position of Automobili Pininfarina among the leading names in electrified automotive luxury. Pininfarina is recognised as a design leader and this, coupled with the technical expertise we have nurtured through bringing Battista to life, will enable us to craft a series of beautiful and thrilling electric cars in future.”

In his previous role as Chief Product and Engineering Officer, Paolo has overseen the development and manufacturing of the highly-acclaimed Battista pure electric hyper GT in Cambiano, Italy. In addition, he has played a leading role in the preparation the company’s strategy to introduce a future portfolio of luxury electric cars.

Gurpratap Boparai, CEO – Automotive Businesses, Europe, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said: “I am delighted to announce the promotion of Paolo Dellachà to CEO of Automobili  Pininfarina. Paolo has overseen the groundbreaking Battista technical programme from concept to delivery. The Battista is already an award-winning, world record-breaking luxury car and I look forward to seeing the team now under his leadership realise the immense potential it has displayed since the company was born.

“I thank Per Svantesson for leading the Automobili Pininfarina team through the environmental and economic challenges faced by the world in recent years. The Battista is a design masterpiece and breathtaking performance car, now delighting its owners across the globe. This success is a testament to the work of Per and his leadership of a brilliant team.”