Automotive Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2027

BERLIN, Nov. 12, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Automotive Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2027 at the Automobilwoche Kongress in Berlin, recognizing five individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted the automotive industry. The inductees include Sir Ron Dennis CBE, Paul Bracq, Rodney O'Neal, John Fitch, and Les Kelley, each of whom has left a lasting legacy in various facets of automotive design, motorsport, business leadership, vehicle valuation, and safety.

Paul Bracq, a renowned automotive designer, helped shape the visual identity of some of Europe's most recognized brands. His work includes the iconic Mercedes-Benz W 113 "Pagoda" SL and the groundbreaking BMW Turbo concept. After spending more than two decades at Peugeot, Bracq's influence across Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Peugeot has defined generations of European automotive design.

Les Kelley, who began his career in a Los Angeles used-car business in 1918, pioneered a more consistent and trusted approach to determining the value of a vehicle. His work evolved into Kelley Blue Book in 1926, establishing an automotive institution whose influence extends far beyond its origins. Kelley's approach to vehicle valuation has become a cornerstone of the industry, relied upon by dealers and banks alike.

Rodney O'Neal, the former CEO of Delphi, led the company through one of the most consequential transformations in the automotive supplier industry. After becoming CEO while the company was operating under Chapter 11 protection, O'Neal successfully led its unexpected emergence, return to the public markets, and shift toward technologies focused on safer, greener, and more connected mobility. This transformation helped set the foundation for the company that later became Aptiv.

John Fitch, a racing legend, competed at the highest levels of international motorsport, winning at Sebring and helping establish Chevrolet's early Corvette racing program. After witnessing the devastating 1955 Le Mans crash, Fitch increasingly turned his experience toward protecting others, pioneering the Fitch Inertial Barrier, an energy-absorbing safety system that continues to help protect motorists from dangerous fixed roadside hazards.

Sir Ron Dennis CBE, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Formula One, began his career in motorsport in 1966. He restructured and took full control of McLaren in the early 1980s, transforming the team into a motorsport powerhouse with 158 Grand Prix victories and 17 World Championships. Sir Ron's leadership and vision extended beyond Formula One racing, developing McLaren into a globally recognized and revolutionary automotive and technology business. His impact continues to reflect a career defined by ambition, precision, and innovation.

The induction of these five individuals into the Automotive Hall of Fame marks a significant milestone in the organization's history. Founded in 1939, the Automotive Hall of Fame is dedicated to recognizing the people whose achievements have shaped the automotive industry and advanced mobility worldwide. Since 1967, AHF has inducted over 300 individuals whose leadership and influence have left a lasting impact on the automotive world. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place in Detroit on September 23, 2027, celebrating the contributions of these remarkable individuals and the enduring legacy they have left on the automotive industry.