Mercedes Design Names Lee to Replace Piaskowski

Daimler AG says Hubert Lee will take over as head of Mercedes-Benz’s Advanced Design Studio in Carlsbad, CA, effective April 1.

The announcement comes one day after Ward’s reported designer Joel Piaskowski left Mercedes for unspecified reasons.

It is unclear if Lee, who will carry the title of creative director, is a direct replacement for Piaskowski.

“The design department has restructured its tasks and responsibilities, including the Advanced Design Studio in North America,” Rob Moran, Mercedes-Benz USA spokesman says.

Piaskowski joined Mercedes-Benz in January 2009 from Hyundai Motor America, where he was design chief for six years. Prior to joining Hyundai, Piaskowski worked for the former General Motors Corp. for 13 years.

Lee, already an employee of Mercedes-Benz, reportedly designed the F800 Style concept car unveiled at the recent Geneva auto show.