Niels Wichmann, new Head of Volkswagen Brand in SA

Niels Wichmann has been appointed as the new Head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand effective 1 August 2023.

23 V Wniels1

Wichmann replaces Steffen Knapp who has been appointed as the brand head of Volkswagen Taiwan.

Wichmann, 51, joins Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) from Volkswagen’s headquarters in Wolfsburg where he was head of Product Marketing for small/compact cars such as Polo.

Steffen Knapp, outgoing Head of Volkswagen Brand with Niels Wichmann, new Head of Volkswagen Brand.

He has been working for Volkswagen since 2000. During this time, Wichmann has held various management positions in sales within the Volkswagen Brand, including a global assignment in Brazil.

“Niels brings with him a wealth of experience in sales and product marketing, which will help us to move the brand to the next level, especially at this time when it is faced with tough competition in the local market.

“He will also play an important role in our growth strategy in sub-Saharan Africa,” said Thomas Milz, VWSA Sales and Marketing Director.

More Industry News stories

Isuzu expands African footprint with new D-Max

Isuzu expands African footprint with new D-Max

Isuzu Motors South Africa has begun distributing the latest D-Max from its Gqeberha plant to dealerships across the country, with further shipments planned for more than 30 African markets.

  • 28 May 2026
Stellantis doubles down on smarter cars with Qualcomm partnership

Stellantis doubles down on smarter cars with Qualcomm partnership

Stellantis is accelerating its push into software defined vehicles through an expanded partnership with Qualcomm Technologies that will bring more advanced driver assistance, connectivity and in car digital systems to its next generation vehicles.

  • 26 May 2026