Marshall chief executive Daksh Gupta said: "He was quite simply, an industry legend. He was an inspiring mentor to me, and I am so proud that we became close friends. I will miss him deeply."
Meanwhile, Graham Hoare, executive director – business transformation and chairman of Ford of Britain, chair of the UK automotive council, said: "Richard was a pillar of the automotive industry: inspiring and respected across the breadth of the sector, and by his colleagues and friends in government.
"He was an exceptional engineer, whose influence was felt globally, yet he cherished the UK auto industry and had a passion for his Welsh heritage. After a successful career including such brands as Aston Martin Lagonda, Jaguar Land Rover and Ford, he was the architect and led the UK Automotive Council from 2009, seeking to bring the industry and government behind a renaissance for the UK auto sector through a comprehensive industrial strategy.
"His leadership was instrumental in our success and inspiring the vibrant automotive community that we have today. He will be greatly missed by those that had the pleasure to work with him. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."