Wolfgang Hatz (pictured above), Porsche’s research and development boss has resigned from his post, ending his 14-year career with Porsche and leaving Micheal Steiner as his replacement. Before his resignation, Hatz was under extended voluntary leave due to the ongoing dieselgate investigations.
Hatz was previously the head of engine and powertrain development for the Volkswagen Group, putting him at the centre of the dieselgate scandal. While investigations have yet to prove the former R&D boss’ involvement in the scandal, Hatz has decided to leave Porsche voluntarily.
The 57-year-old has been chief of Porsche’s R&D department for a total of five years. Throughout his career, Hatz has been involved with other brands including BMW, Opel, Fiat and Audi. At Porsche, Hatz’s work includes the development of the 918 Spyder, the 911 GT3 RS and the all-electric Mission E.
Meanwhile, the incoming chief of R&D Micheal Steiner will move up to his new position from head of quality management, which he has held since 2011. Steiner was also head of innovation and concepts at one time. His achievements include leading the development of the Porsche Panamera.
“I look back fondly on my time at Porsche AG and am very happy that Michael Steiner is taking over as my successor,” Hatz said in a statement. Steiner will be tasked with electrification, digitalisation and connectivity as a few of the key roadmaps of the brand’s future. In other words, he will be tasked with “fusing Porsche’s traditional genes with the technologies of tomorrow.”
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Abang kita pulak resign SUSAH.
Scapegoat only la. This guy is leaving anyway