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.
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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.
Chery, one of the major Chinese players in the South African automotive landscape, will build on its local success with the expansion of its range next year, with the inclusion of the new Himla bakkie.
In South Africa, a car is more than a convenience, it’s a lifeline. For many, it’s how they get to work, take children to school, or keep small businesses running, especially when public transport often falls short.
Jetour has launched its new T1 and T2 models locally, which will officially go on sale mid-November at over 55 Jetour dealerships across Southern Africa.
In South Africa, a car is more than a convenience, it’s a lifeline. For many, it’s how they get to work, take children to school, or keep small businesses running, especially when public transport often falls short.
The first production-ready locally assembled Foton Tunland bakkies will be ready early next year and will form part of the brand’s drive to expand its footprint in Africa.