Skoda boss Klaus Zellmer to become Volvo Cars CEO

Klaus Zellmer is leaving Skoda to become the next President and CEO of Volvo Cars, with the transition set to be completed by October 2027 at the latest. The 59-year-old will take over from Håkan Samuelsson, who has indicated he will step back from full-time work when his contract concludes in April 2027, at the age of 75.

Samuelsson has led Volvo through a significant period of change, steering the brand towards electrification and a more premium market position. His departure had been anticipated, and according to multiple reports, Zellmer has been chosen to continue that direction as the Swedish manufacturer prepares for a substantial period of product expansion.

Volvo is reported to be planning a significant wave of new models in the coming years, with reports pointing to a 13-model offensive on the horizon. That scale of product activity makes the timing of a leadership transition particularly significant, as the incoming chief executive will be responsible for overseeing much of that rollout.

For everyday drivers, the change is a signal that Volvo is pressing ahead with its longer-term plans rather than pausing for a strategic reset. Zellmer arrives with experience of managing a high-volume European brand through a period that has included electrification, supply chain pressures and shifting consumer demand, all challenges that are equally relevant at Volvo.