The automotive world has lost one of its brightest minds with the passing of Roy Hamilton Sjoberg, Jr., who died on March 30, 2025 at the age of 86. A maverick engineer, a relentless innovator, and the heart and soul behind the Dodge Viper, Roy’s legacy is etched into the roar of V10 engines and the fearless spirit of American performance cars.
A Visionary Engineer: The Birth of the Viper
Roy “Father Viper” Sjoberg
Roy Sjoberg’s name is forever intertwined with the Dodge Viper, a car that defied convention from the moment it was conceived. In the late 1980s, when fuel efficiency and practicality dominated the industry, Roy championed a radical idea—a raw, no-compromises, V10-powered roadster that would revive the thrill of classic American muscle with modern engineering.
As the Chief Engineer of the Viper program, Roy’s creativity knew no bounds. He insisted on a hand-built, aluminum-block V10 engine, a bold move that pushed Chrysler’s limits. Rejecting power steering, advanced driver aids, and even proper side windows in the early models, he crafted a car that demanded skill and rewarded passion—a true driver’s machine. His mantra was “no excuses, no apologies,” and the Viper became a symbol of that philosophy.
Under his leadership, the Viper evolved from a wild concept car at the 1989 Detroit Auto Show into a production reality in just three years—an unheard-of timeline in the auto industry. His hands-on approach meant he was often in the garage late at night, tweaking designs, testing prototypes, and inspiring his team to think beyond the ordinary.
A Leader Who Inspired Greatness
Roy’s influence extended far beyond blueprints and dyno tests. At Chrysler, he was known as a mentor and motivator, fostering a culture of innovation where engineers were encouraged to take risks. He famously assembled a “Viper Team” of young, passionate engineers, giving them unprecedented freedom to create something extraordinary. Many of them went on to become leaders in the industry, crediting Roy’s leadership as their foundation.
His colleagues remember him not just for his brilliance but for his unshakable integrity and dry wit. Whether he was debating aerodynamics over coffee or calming nerves before a high-stakes executive presentation, Roy led with wisdom and humility.
A Legacy Beyond the Viper
Before the Viper, Roy had already left his mark at General Motors, contributing to projects like the Chevrolet Corvette and advanced powertrain development. After Chrysler, he remained a sought-after consultant, sharing his expertise with startups and established automakers alike.
Outside of engineering, Roy was deeply committed to mentoring young talent, often speaking at universities and supporting STEM initiatives. He believed that the future of the automotive industry depended on nurturing the next generation of dreamers and doers.
A Life Well Lived
Roy is survived by his wife Peg; three children, seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and extended family, as well as a global community of car enthusiasts, engineers, and friends who were inspired by his vision.
- A private family memorial service will be held on Mullett Lake in July.
- The family suggests memorials in lieu of flowers to Friends of Inland Lakes Schools Fund (FOILS), EIN 26-2153429, PO Box 1179, Indian River, MI 49749.
- To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roy Hamilton Sjoberg, Jr., please visit our floral store.
“The Viper wasn’t built by committee—it was built by believers.”— Roy Sjoberg
