Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, also known as "Butzi," was born on November 11, 1935, in Stuttgart, Germany. He was born into a family with a rich automotive history, as his father, Ferry Porsche, was the son of Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of the Porsche car company.
Butzi initially pursued a career in industrial design, studying at the Ulm School of Design in Germany. However, he was dismissed after a year by the school's examination board. Undeterred, Butzi began gaining practical design experience in 1957, setting the foundation for his future success in the automotive industry.
One of Butzi's most notable contributions to the automotive world was the design of the Porsche 911 sports car. The Porsche 911 was first unveiled in 1964 and remains an iconic and beloved model to this day. Butzi also designed the Porsche 904 sports car, showcasing his talent and innovation in the field of automotive design.
In addition to his work on production cars, Butzi also designed the Porsche Type 804 Formula 1 race car, showcasing his versatility and skill in designing high-performance vehicles.
Later in his career, Butzi founded the Porsche Design Studio, where he continued to develop innovative and iconic designs across various industries. He served as the Honorary President of the Supervisory Board for Porsche Design Studio from 2005 until his passing in 2012, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of design.
Butzi's impact on the automotive world can still be felt today, with his designs for the Porsche 911 and other vehicles continuing to be celebrated for their timeless style and performance. His work has been featured in movies, such as Michael Bay's "Bad Boys," further solidifying his place in pop culture.
Throughout his career, Butzi remained dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design and innovation, leaving a lasting impact on the automotive and design industries. His unique vision and creativity continue to inspire designers and enthusiasts around the world.
Ferdinand Alexander "Butzi" Porsche passed away in 2012, but his legacy lives on through his iconic designs and lasting influence on the world of automotive and industrial design.