Sergio Pininfarina facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sergio Pininfarina
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| Member of the Senate of the Republic | |
| Life tenure 23 September 2005 – 3 July 2012 |
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| Appointed by | Carlo Azeglio Ciampi |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 8 September 1926 Turin, Kingdom of Italy |
| Died | 3 July 2012 (aged 85) Turin, Italy |
| Political party | Independent |
| Spouse | Giorgia Gianolio |
| Children | Andrea Paolo |
| Alma mater | Polytechnic University of Turin |
Sergio Pininfarina (born Sergio Farina on September 8, 1926) was a famous Italian car designer. He also became a special kind of politician called a Senator for life before he passed away on July 3, 2012.
Contents
Sergio Pininfarina's Life Story
Becoming a Car Designer
Sergio Pininfarina was born in Turin, Italy. He joined his father, Battista Farina, at their family company, Carrozzeria Pininfarina. This company was known for designing beautiful car bodies. Sergio quickly became a very important part of the business. During his career, he helped create many famous car designs, especially for Ferrari.
In 1961, something special happened. The Italian president changed his family's last name from Farina to Pininfarina. This was done to match the name of their famous car design company.
One of Sergio's big achievements was convincing Enzo Ferrari in 1965 to try a new engine design for road cars. He suggested placing the engine behind the driver but in front of the rear wheels. This is called a "rear-mid" engine setup. This idea led to the amazing Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Speciale concept car. It was shown at the Paris Motor Show that year.
After his father passed away in 1966, Sergio Pininfarina became the chairman, or head, of the company. In 2006, Sergio and his son Andrea were named Honorary Chairmen of Pininfarina. Sadly, Andrea passed away in 2008.
Sergio Pininfarina in Politics
Besides designing cars, Sergio Pininfarina also worked in politics. From 1979 to 1988, he was a MEP. This means he was a representative for Italy in the European Parliament, which helps make laws for countries in Europe. He was part of the Italian Liberal Party.
Becoming a Senator for Life
On September 23, 2005, Sergio Pininfarina was given a very special honor. He was named a Senator for Life of the Italian Republic by President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. This meant he would be a senator for the rest of his life.
Senators for life can vote on important decisions in the Italian government. Sergio attended a vote in 2007 that was about Italy's foreign policy. His vote, which was an "abstain" (meaning he didn't vote yes or no), played a part in the government's plan being defeated. After this, he did not vote in the Senate again.
His Passing
Sergio Pininfarina passed away in Turin on July 3, 2012, when he was 85 years old. He is remembered for his incredible car designs and his contributions to Italy.
See also
In Spanish: Sergio Pininfarina para niños
