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Skoda Boss Klaus Zellmer Named as New CEO of Volvo
The German executive brings more than 30 years in the auto industry as Volvo pursues a broad overhaul to lift margins above 8%.
On Sunday, Volvo Cars appointed Klaus Zellmer as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective no later than October 1, 2027. Zellmer currently leads Skoda Auto.
Current CEO Håkan Samuelsson will step down next year when his contract expires. Samuelsson told media, "I expect to remain until my contract expires in April."
Volvo Car Chairman Li Shufu praised the incoming executive, stating, "Klaus Zellmer combines deep expertise in the automotive industry with extensive international leadership experience." The board expects a "seamless" transition.
To navigate fierce competition, the company is reshaping its manufacturing network and adopting a regional approach. Volvo is deepening cooperation with its Chinese parent company, Geely.
Volvo aims to double its global sales share of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids from around 1.7% currently. The automaker is giving hybrids a larger role due to a slower-than-expected shift toward full EVs.
Klaus Cellmer, who has worked in the automobile industry for more than 30 years, is expected to lead a Swedish car manufacturer no later than 1 October 2027.