Volvo Cars has announced that Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Volkswagen Group's Skoda brand, will become its new president and CEO, taking over from Håkan Samuelsson who will step down next spring. The Swedish automaker said in a statement on September 20 that Zellmer, a veteran with more than 30 years in the industry, will officially assume the role no later than October 1, 2027, and will work with the board and Samuelsson to ensure a smooth transition.
Volvo chairman Li Shufu said in the statement: "Klaus Zellmer has an excellent track record of leading companies through transformation in a changing market. His experience spans both premium and volume brands, which is highly relevant to this role."
A turnaround plan in motion
The appointment comes just days after Volvo, which is controlled by China's Geely, unveiled a sweeping restructuring plan on September 17. The plan includes rebuilding its production network, retaining five dedicated Volvo plants and sharing two others with partners, in response to intensifying competition. It also encompasses the most aggressive product launch schedule in the company's history.
Volvo aims to launch seven new models for Western markets and six for China by 2030, targeting a doubling of its global market share in battery-electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles from the current level of about 1.7 percent. The company has also elevated the strategic importance of hybrid models after its pure-electric transition progressed more slowly than expected, and is deepening cooperation with parent Geely.
Samuelsson, 75, returned to lead the European brand last year amid multiple challenges, including US tariffs, an aging model lineup, low factory utilization and high raw material costs. Under his leadership, Volvo shifted away from a one-size-fits-all global vehicle strategy, acknowledging that consumer demands in Europe, China and the US have diverged significantly. The information was reported by Gasgoo and Bloomberg, according to Chinese outlet D1EV.
Leadership transition
Samuelsson will leave his post next spring. His successor, Zellmer, has led Skoda through its own transformation and previously held senior roles at Porsche and other Volkswagen Group brands. Volvo's board said Zellmer's experience in both premium and high-volume segments makes him well suited to steer the company through its next phase of electrification and market expansion.
