Decoder with Nilay Patel Can CEO Herbert Diess reinvent Volkswagen with EVs and software?
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Jan 18, 2022 Herbert Diess, CEO of Volkswagen Group, leads the charge in transforming the iconic automaker from gas-powered vehicles to electric mobility. He discusses the revival of the classic microbus as an EV and the challenges of creating a robust charging infrastructure. Diess delves into the importance of software integration in vehicles and outlines VW's strategic efforts to compete with Tesla. He emphasizes the need for vertical integration and innovative business models as Volkswagen embarks on its ambitious journey towards a sustainable future.
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VW's Platform Strategy
- Volkswagen aims for economies of scale through shared platforms and software across its brands.
- They believe hardware differentiation will decrease in the electric car era, emphasizing software's role.
Diess' Decision-Making
- Herbert Diess believes the best decisions come from collective team knowledge and diverse perspectives.
- He seeks varied insights and fosters discussions to arrive at well-informed conclusions.
VW's Corporate Structure
- Volkswagen's structure, including its supervisory board and union representation, necessitates extensive alignment and discussions.
- Diess acknowledges the complexity but believes it fosters shared interest and thorough decision-making.