Kia's tiger' wins top design award

The Kia Cerato and Peter Schreyer (below) with his Grand Prix du Design award for his work at Kia. Cerato Picture / Ted Baghurst

He's famous for transforming the look of Kia vehicles and now former Audi designer Peter Schreyer has been recognised with a top award in Europe.

Schreyer was presented with the 2014 Grand Prix du Design at the 29th Festival Automobile International in Paris.

Since his appointment as chief design officer with Kia Motors in 2006, his influence on the design and styling of Kia cars and SUVs has helped to lift the image and fortunes of Korea's longest-established vehicle manufacturer.

Peter Schreyer, with the '2014 Grand Prix du Design' award for his work at Kia.

Speaking at a gala dinner for more than 600 VIP guests from the automotive, fashion, music, movie, media and advertising worlds gathered at Les Invalides, Jean-Michel Wilmotte, president of the 2014 awards jury, commented: "This award acknowledges outstanding design work in an international context. Peter Schreyer is awarded the Grand Prix for his design achievements.

"In the seven years since he first became chief of design for Kia, Peter has co-ordinated styling studios in Korea, America and Europe, and succeeded in transforming Kia's design and making it desirable. The remarkable evolution of product design at the South Korean automotive giant is linked to Peter's commitment and know-how, which makes him one of the few well-known protagonists in contemporary automotive design."

Schreyer is famous for creating the "tiger nose" front grille for Kia.