Volkswagen Unifies New Mobility & Technical Development Divisions

Volkswagen Passenger Cars has consolidated the New Mobility and Technical Development divisions, effective Apr. 1, 2024, under the leadership of Board Member Kai Grünitz. This integration aims to enhance efficiency and promote stronger collaboration within the development process.

As a crucial part of the brand's performance program, this initiative involves amalgamating key components of the “New Mobility” division into the Technical Development division. All developmental activities related to future technologies and vehicle architectures, including MEB and MQB, are included. The Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB) serves as the dedicated platform for electric vehicles. 

This consolidation also includes steering the development volumes for Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) model series, such as MQB. Volkswagen's Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform plays a pivotal role in designing and producing their vehicles, offering flexibility. The modular approach allows the creation of diverse cars and SUVs with varying dimensions, adapting to different powertrain options, including hybrid, electric, or gas. MQB, or "Modularer Quer Baukasten" in German, simplifies the manufacturing process and supports Volkswagen's strategy for vehicles with alternative power sources. The platform's versatility, observed in models like Jetta, Virtus, and T-Cross, enhances performance and optimizes interior space by adjusting the distance between axles.

Thomas Ulbrich, who served as the Volkswagen Brand Board Member for “New Mobility” since 2022, has been appointed the Volkswagen Group’s Head of Development in China, effective Apr. 1, 2024. Ulbrich played a pivotal role in the development of the ID electric range and contributed groundbreaking work in software and digital networking processes, according to a Volkswagen press release. The restructuring aims to integrate and capitalize on the advancements made in the “New Mobility” division, as stated by Volkswagen.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO, Volkswagen, expressed gratitude for Ulbrich’s commitment, acknowledging his instrumental role in advancing the ID. electric range. “This is the right step at the right time. New digital technologies will thus become an even more integral part of our future-oriented vehicle development. At the same time, we are making an important contribution to the brand’s performance program with more efficient structures and leaner processes”, said Schäfer.