Who's Where: Edgar Heinrich appointed Head of Design, BMW Motorrad

Edgar Heinrich, formally Vice President Product Design with Bajaj Auto Ltd, has been appointed Head of Design for BMW Motorrad. He fills the role left by the resignation of David Robb, reportedly following a disagreement with a co-worker. Heinrich will report directly to Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design.

Heinrich is no stranger to Munich, having begun his career as a motorcycle designer with BMW back in 1986, working on iconic bikes such as the R1100 RS and RT models.

Heinrich made his way to Head of Vehicle Design Motorcycles, a position he held for two years between 2007 and 2009. Under his direction, the design team created such bikes as the HP Megamoto, S 1000 RR and the F800/ 650 Series. Other works include the café-racer inspired BMW Custom Concept study and the development of the flagship six-cylinder touring bikes, K 1600 GT and GTL.

From 2009 onward, Henrich worked in India for Bajaj Auto Ltd, his work there included the latest generation Pulsar model, a premium segment bike that helped establish Bajaj against main rival Honda.

Heinrich's predecessor, David Robb held the position of Head of Design for BMW Motorrad for 18 years, during which time the Motorrad product line-up expanded from three models to a six. He also created such bikes as the R 1200 C cruiser, as well as overseeing such recently released models such as the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT maxi-scooters.

"Edgar Heinrich is an excellent motorcycle designer and passionate motorcyclist who has already made key contributions to BMW Motorrad design in the course of his many years of experience," said Adrian van Hooydonk. "I very much look forward to collaborating with him to take BMW Motorrad design to ongoing success in the future."

Heinrich takes up his position from 1 July 2012.

By John O'Brien