Volkswagen Group Names Rivian's Kjell Gruner as CEO of US Operations

The Volkswagen Group has appointed Kjell Gruner as CEO of Volkswagen Group of America effective December 12. Gruner succeeds Pablo Di Si, who has stepped down from his position on his own request. 

Gruner joins Volkswagen from Rivian where he held the positions of Chief Commercial Officer and President, Business Growth.

Rivian and Volkswagen have recently announced plans to form an equally controlled and owned joint venture (JV) to create next-generation electrical architecture and best-in-class software technology.

Volkswagen's portfolio in the US includes vehicles with highly efficient combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric vehicles.

It has invested considerable resources in expanding its regional production capacity over the past ten years.

This includes state-of-the-art battery production facilities, the development of specific vehicle architectures for the North American market, comprehensive research and development, vehicle assembly and component manufacturing.

Gunnar Kilian, Group Board Member for Human Resources at Volkswagen AG, says:: "Kjell Gruner is an absolute expert for the US market. He has over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry and extensive know-how in exploiting and expediting growth opportunities in North America. Volkswagen AG is indebted to his predecessor, Pablo Di Si. His outstanding commitment was of central importance in realigning our business in South America. He subsequently laid the foundation for the positive development of our North American strategy."

Arno Antlitz, CFO & COO of the Volkswagen Group, adds: "The North American market with Canada, Mexico, and the USA is an important strategic pillar for the Volkswagen Group. Targeted investments in local production and innovative technologies are strengthening our global footprint and enabling us to better meet the needs of our American customers. We would like to thank Pablo Di Si, who, together with his local team, has made a lasting contribution to strengthening the American regions of our Group. In Kjell Gruner, we have brought on board an experienced expert who knows the market and customers very well and will continue to consistently pursue the growth path we have embarked on."

Volkswagen Group’s vehicles are sold in over 150 countries.