In a move reinforcing its commitment to the Chinese automotive industry, the Volkswagen Group is intensifying its Technical Development Board function in the China region under its 'In China, for China' strategy. Effective April 1, 2024, Thomas Ulbrich, former Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand for 'New Mobility,' will spearhead Technical Development for the Group in China. This strategic decision aims to advance the technological localisation of the portfolio, aligning with Volkswagen's focus on catering to the dynamic changes in China's automotive landscape.
Ulbrich, already holding two management positions for the Group in China, brings his extensive expertise to drive the localisation of technologies. He will succeed Marcus Hafkemeyer, leveraging his profound experience in China to support the company's transformation in a new role within the Group.
Ralf Brandstätter, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG for the China region and CEO of Volkswagen Group China, emphasised the significance of localisation to meet the preferences of Chinese customers. He acknowledged Hafkemeyer's contributions in advancing Technical Development's regional focus, particularly through the establishment of a new development centre in Hefei.
Brandstätter expressed confidence in Ulbrich's capabilities, citing his exceptional expertise in future technologies and established connections within the company and the China region. Ulbrich's priorities will include strengthening collaboration with joint venture companies FAW-Volkswagen, SAIC Volkswagen, and Volkswagen Anhui, playing a pivotal role in the transformation to smart e-mobility.
In addition to his role as Technical Development head, Ulbrich will assume the position of CEO of Volkswagen China Technology Company (VCTC) in Hefei, eastern China. VCTC, the Group's largest development centre outside Germany, focuses on intelligent, fully connected electric vehicles. This centre is crucial for developing specific models for China, including the first local electric platform serving as the foundation for new Volkswagen brand models from 2026.
Efficient development processes and state-of-the-art technologies at VCTC aim to reduce time-to-market for vehicles and components by 30%. Collaboration with joint venture companies, battery provider Gotion, and Chinese automaker XPENG, as well as technology partners Horizon Robotics, ARK, Thundersoft, and Volkswagen's software arm CARIAD, will enhance synergies.
The move consolidates the 'New Mobility' Board of Management department of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand into Technical Development to ensure efficient structures and stronger networking. Ulbrich's expertise in testing and establishing new software development processes for electric vehicles will contribute to ongoing advancements in the sector.
Thomas Ulbrich, with a background in automotive engineering, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His career trajectory, from plant logistics roles in Wolfsburg to leadership positions in China and Germany, positions him well to lead Technical Development in China for the Volkswagen Group.
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