Volvo Cars appoints Klaus Zellmer as CEO to succeed Håkan Samuelsson

Sunday 20 September 2026 - 11:17

Volvo Cars has announced the appointment of Klaus Zellmer as its new Chief Executive Officer. Currently the head of Škoda Auto, the executive will take the reins of the Swedish manufacturer by October 1, 2027, amidst a significant transformation in the automotive sector.

A leadership change at Volvo Cars

Volvo Cars is preparing for a new phase in its governance with the arrival of Klaus Zellmer as CEO. The Swedish automaker announced on Sunday, September 20, 2026, that Zellmer would become its next president and CEO.

His appointment will take effect no later than October 1, 2027. Zellmer will succeed Håkan Samuelsson, whose tenure at the helm of Volvo Cars will conclude with this transition.

This appointment comes as the global automotive industry continues its transformation, particularly driven by electrification, evolving in-car technologies, and increased competition between established manufacturers and new players.

Klaus Zellmer, a leader from the Volkswagen Group

Klaus Zellmer currently leads Škoda Auto, a brand under the Volkswagen Group. He has notably made his mark at the Czech manufacturer during a period characterized by the renewal of its lineup and the acceleration of its strategy in electric vehicles.

Before taking the helm at Škoda, the German executive held several significant roles in the automotive industry and within the Volkswagen Group. His background also includes experience at Porsche in North America.

His arrival at Volvo Cars will thus bring the manufacturer leadership with international experience across several major automotive markets.

Volvo Cars facing market transformations

The appointment of Klaus Zellmer comes at a strategic moment for Volvo Cars. The manufacturer, controlled by Chinese group Geely, has been pursuing its transition towards a more electrified lineup for several years.

Like the rest of the sector, Volvo must contend with increased international competition, significant investments in new technologies, and rapid changes in automotive demand.

The future CEO will thus need to guide the group's upcoming directions while ensuring continuity in its industrial and commercial strategy.

A long-term prepared transition

By setting a deadline of October 1, 2027, Volvo Cars is opening a relatively long transition period before the new CEO takes office.

This period will allow the manufacturer to prepare for the handover between Håkan Samuelsson and Klaus Zellmer, as automakers adjust their strategies in response to technological developments and new dynamics in the global market.