Stellantis Design Chief Discusses Chrysler's Past Interior Shortcomings

Ralph Gilles, Stellantis's head of design, has acknowledged that Chrysler interiors prior to the company's 2009 bankruptcy were of poor quality. In an interview with Automotive News, Gilles compared the cabin plastics of that era to a cheap toy. He cited a visit to an Audi A4 as the catalyst for change, prompting him to establish a dedicated interiors studio and push for improved cabin quality.

The results were evident in vehicles such as the 2009 Ram 1500, which marked a departure from earlier models' hard, gray plastics. Today, Stellantis's interiors have received better reviews, with notable progress seen in models like the Jeep Wagoneer. However, Gilles notes that the company may have overshot in its efforts to improve interiors, exceeding the competitive set.

The company has also expanded its user experience design team, from four designers after the PSA and FCA merger to over 180, focusing on infotainment and driver interaction.