According to the press release, the surprising departure was decided “by mutual agreement” at a meeting of Volkswagen’s supervisory board. The Supervisory Board thanked Diess for his great contribution to the transformation of the concern.
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Diess’s future at the head of one of the most prominent global firms was in jeopardy several times during his four-year tenure, Reuters recalled. Most recently, the 63-year-old manager clashed with the company’s executive board over his electrification strategy and management style last fall.
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His departure comes as the company pushes to beat US electric car maker Tesla to become the world’s largest electric car maker. It is also preparing to list its Porsche sports car brand.
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“After a really stressful first half of 2022, many of us are looking forward to a well-deserved summer break,” Diess wrote on LinkedIn before announcing his departure.
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“I will focus on customers, brands and products,” said the fifty-four-year-old Blume, who is to replace Diesse at the head of the concern, which also includes the Czech car manufacturer Škoda Auto, from September.
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According to the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Hans Dieter Pötsch, the new head of Volkswagen should, together with the entire executive board, continue to promote the transformation in a team spirit.
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