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January 31, 2016

LIASE Group Attends the 2015 Edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Connected Car Expo

The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas (left), Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia (right) and Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, take a picture at the LA Auto Show.

Summary: The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas, Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia, and Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, attended the 2015 edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Connected Car Expo from November 17 to 19.

 

Article: The Los Angeles Auto Show is the first Major auto show of the season in North America every year. The 2015 edition kicked off with the Connected Car Expo (CCE), followed by the vehicle debuts and the press and trade events. The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas, Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia, and Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, were all in attendance.

 

This was the third edition of the CCE, which has been a meeting point for connected car executives and business leaders since its inception. This year’s event focused on:

  • – The future of self-driving cars
  • – Phone-car interfaces
  • – Automotive technology start-ups
  • – Automotive data and analytics for marketing
  • – Car sharing
  • – The Automotive applications of 3D printing
  • – Infotainment
  • – Automotive cybersecurity

 

While the automotive leaders assembled for the conference all agreed that the future of the automotive car industry will be shaped by seld-driving cars, they also outlined a number of problems with autonomous cars as they are now designed.

 

  • – They are unable to respond to police officers giving them orders and direction. This could lead to problems in a situation where the light is green, but a police officer is telling the car to stop, for example.
  •  

  • – The cameras, lasers, radars, and computers that allow cars to navigate the streets still can’t match human brans when it comes to evaluating dangers, often coming to an emergency stop for no reason.
  •  

  • – They have difficulty navigating around traffic hazards such as traffic cones and construction zones, where there are temporary lane markers on top of permanent lines.

 

Nevertheless speakers at the conference were confident about the future of connected car technologies.

 

The speaking list featured an impressive number of global automotive connectivity leaders, including:

  • – Thomas Form, Electronics & Vehicle Research, Volkswagen;
  • – Brian Droessler, VP of Software & Connected Solutions, Continental;
  • – Gary O’Brien, Global Director Advanced Engineering, Delphi;
  • – Evan Malahy, Design Lead, Android Auto;
  • – Lars Boeryd, Director of Automotive Marketing, Qualcomm;
  • – Paul Asel, Managing Partner, Nokia Growth Partners;
  • – Alicia Agius, GoDrive Project Lead, Ford of Europe;
  • – Matt Jones, Head of Future Infotainment, Jaguar Land Rover;
  • – Frankie James, Managing Director, Advanced Tech Office, General Motors Silicon Valley;
  • – Nick Sugimoto, Program Director, Honda Silicon Valley Lab;
  • – Ned Curic, CTO, Toyota Motor Sales;
  • – Chris Valasek, Security Lead, Uber Advanced Technology; and,
  • – Arwed Niestroj, CEO, Research & Development North America, Mercedez-Benz.

 

While Los Angeles can’t be compared to larger shows for new car launches and announcements, the 2015 edition nevertheless offered plenty of excitement. And since LA is the land of movie stars, palm trees, and picturesque drives along the coast, convertibles were on full show.

 

World production model debuts included the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, the Hyundai Elantra, the Fiat 124 Spider, the Mazda CX-9, Mercedez’ reworked SL-Class and GLS-Class, as well as the new Subary Impreza sedan concept.

 

Green cars and environmental issues also drew their fair part of attention at the event. The 2016 Chevrolet Volt was named Green Car of the year at the event. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen scandal was being widely discussed by executives and automotive leaders assembled on the show floor and in the backstage.

 

As always, the event was a great opportunity for the LIASE Group to keep abreast of the latest automotive trends and network with some of the auto industry’s most exciting leaders and engineers.

The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas, and Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia, pose at the Ford Booth of the LA Auto Show.

The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas, and Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia, pose at the Ford Booth of the LA Auto Show.

The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas (left), Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia (right) and Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, take a picture at the LA Auto Show.

The LIASE Group’s John Bukowicz, Managing Director for the Americas (left), Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia (right) and Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, take a picture at the LA Auto Show.

  Lyft Inc., co-founder and president, John Zimmer, speaking during the Connected Car Expo at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 17, 2015.


Lyft Inc., co-founder and president, John Zimmer, speaking during the Connected Car Expo at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 17, 2015.

The new Mazda CX-9 which was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show reworked its crossover both in style and under the hood, with a new 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. The three-row crossover was widely praised for its design.

The new Mazda CX-9 which was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show reworked its crossover both in style and under the hood, with a new 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. The three-row crossover was widely praised for its design.

The second-generation Chevy Volt, a plug-in hybrid was named “Green Car of the Year,” edging out the Audi A3 E-Tron, the new Toyota Prius, the Hyundai Sonata and the Honda Civic. The Chevy Volt was apparently chosen for its fuel economy and range. The Volt can go 53 miles range on electric power alone and 420 miles on gas and battery power.

The second-generation Chevy Volt, a plug-in hybrid was named “Green Car of the Year,” edging out the Audi A3 E-Tron, the new Toyota Prius, the Hyundai Sonata and the Honda Civic. The Chevy Volt was apparently chosen for its fuel economy and range. The Volt can go 53 miles range on electric power alone and 420 miles on gas and battery power.

The Range Rover Evoque Convertible fit perfectly with the mood in sunny California. Although the convertible crossover might not be for everyone, it might find its niche as a lifestyle car in the wealthier parts of LA.

The Range Rover Evoque Convertible fit perfectly with the mood in sunny California. Although the convertible crossover might not be for everyone, it might find its niche as a lifestyle car in the wealthier parts of LA.

Hyundai unveiled the 6th generation Elantra at the show. The reworked model uses high-end steel to lower its weight, overhauled the suspension to improve performance and reduced noise in the cabin through various means.

Hyundai unveiled the 6th generation Elantra at the show. The reworked model uses high-end steel to lower its weight, overhauled the suspension to improve performance and reduced noise in the cabin through various means.

Fiat unveiled the new 124 Spider at the LA Auto Show. The flashy roadster is a bid to increase Fiat’s profile in North America. Fiat actually collaborated with Mazda to design the car, meaning that the overall look of the car is very similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Fiat unveiled the new 124 Spider at the LA Auto Show. The flashy roadster is a bid to increase Fiat’s profile in North America. Fiat actually collaborated with Mazda to design the car, meaning that the overall look of the car is very similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

The new Mercedes GLS replaces the GL-Class SUV. The seven-seater is fitted with a massive engine, a redesigned front end plenty of goodies on the inside. Mercedes is rumored to be working on a Mayback SUV as well.

The new Mercedes GLS replaces the GL-Class SUV. The seven-seater is fitted with a massive engine, a redesigned front end plenty of goodies on the inside. Mercedes is rumored to be working on a Mayback SUV as well.

The Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept is an American-friendly version of the Impreza 5-Door Concept that had been presented earlier at the Tokyo auto show.

The Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept is an American-friendly version of the Impreza 5-Door Concept that had been presented earlier at the Tokyo auto show.

October 14, 2015

Top 5 Keys to Help You Determine Executive Compensation

money

Executive compensation is very important to the success of your leadership team. Executives who are improperly compensated may not have the incentives to perform at their best, and they are more likely to leave your company to join a higher paying competitor. Getting it right, however, can mean that you attract and retain the best executives, allowing you to surpass objectives and increase shareholder value.
 
1. Peer Comparison
Low salaries can be demotivating, but a high salary is not necessarily motivating. Executives will learn what their peers are making, and the relative value of his/her package compared to their colleagues could have an important bearing on your employee’s job satisfaction. That’s why it’s important to remain aware of executive compensation market trends for your specific industry.
 
While many countries now require public companies to disclose their executive compensation packages, private companies and companies operating in countries where disclosure is not mandatory mean that actual executive compensation often remains murky. An executive search consultants work with companies across the industry, meaning that they have the right information and data to make an educated decision on current trends for executive compensation within your market.
 
2. Create a Personalized Package that Meets Your Needs and Those of Your Executives
There are many forms of executive compensations that offer a variety of tax benefits and incentives. These range from cash compensation, option grants, and deferred compensation, to long-term incentive plans, retirement packages, and executive perks.
 
By acting as a third-party  and establishing a conversation early on about the expectations and goals of your top performers, an executive search consultant can help you create a package that meets and exceed his/her expectations, while lowering your costs and maximizing shareholder value.
 
3. Stay aware of Laws and Regulations
A number of countries and jurisdictions have passed new laws and regulations limiting executive compensation or banning a number of compensation practices. Other jurisdictions now require an explanation of how the executive compensation was determined.
 
Working with an experienced executive search consultant who has strong ties to a country or region can help you avoid many of the legal and regulatory pitfalls created by this new environment, while allowing you to remain competitive through the use of mutually beneficial compensation packages.
 
4. Choose your Performance Metrics Carefully
It is generally accepted that a significant amount of a senior executive’s compensations should be “risk” and based on performance. Performance should be based on key business metrics that align with the company strategy and cover the correct period of time over which this “risk” should be assumed.
 
LIASE Group consultants have years of experience in the automotive industry. Working across the industry, they’ve seen a wide variety of performance metrics being used and can help you select the best solution for your particular situation.
 
5. Be Strategic About your Compensation Structure
As we stated above, people will gossip, and you can’t necessarily expect your compensation packages to remain secret within or outside organizations. Your compensation packages should remain equitable and your strategy should be well understood by your management team. At the same time, it is important to have a talent development plan and a talent pipeline in place to ensure the long-term success of your company. You might have to offer more to particularly important or high-potential executives to ensure successful management transitions and the ongoing success of your operations.
 
LIASE Group has the experience and expertise needed to help you create a talent management plan. As an independent third-party, we have the distance necessary to help you identify which executives are the most important for the future success of your strategy.

 

To continue thinking about the role of money and salaries in our lives, we’ve prepared a 6 minutes audio segment discussing the subject. The following will discuss how money motivates us? What is the real meaning of money? And, money and culture. Enjoy!!

 
 

October 5, 2015

LIASE Group Explores Latest OEM and Supplier Trends at the 2015 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show

LIASE Group Managing Director for the Americas John Bukowicz (left), LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel (center) and LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (right) standing in front of the Mercedes-Benz logo at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The 66th Frankfurt Motor Show, also known as the IAA (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung) is without a doubt one of the world’s largest automotive shows. LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe, Wolfgang Doell, Managing Director for the Americas, John Bukowicz, and Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel joined over 400 global automotive exhibitors at the 66th edition of the show taking place September 17 to 27 at Messe Frankfurt. A signifier of its scope and importance for the German automotive industry, the event was formally launched by German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

 

Held every two years in variation with the Paris Motor Show, the Frankfurt show is laid out in 12 separate buildings connected by overhanging sidewalks that cover 592,000 square meters; the show takes place on a massive scale. Organizers were expecting over 900,000 visitors over the course of the exhibition. Around one in five visitors are from countries other than Germany.

 

The Frankfurt Motor Show is known to delight car fans with car launches, brand new concept cars, announcements, and the latest in automotive innovation and technology. However, like other auto shows around the world, it also serves as a platform for discussions around the future direction and trends that are impacting the automotive industry.

 

In this sense, the Frankfurt Motor Show highlighted that new autonomous vehicle technologies are in the process of transforming not only the car industry, but also transportation as we know it. Transportation ministers and their top officials from the G7 countries were present in Frankfurt to discuss the impact of vehicle automation on infrastructure, policy, regulation, and transportation as a whole.

 

Another hot topic at the show was connectivity. Seven carmakers showcased automobiles with Android Auto. Carmakers are increasingly competing on connectivity features as customers have shown they are willing to switch brands and pay a premium for their preferred connectivity features. Surveys have shown that buyers in China are particularly willing to switch brands for improved connectivity features, although those in the U.S. and Germany are increasingly demanding these features as well.

 

While green, connected cars were front and center, dropping oil prices and global demand for large cars also meant that large SUVs and high-performance automobiles had a prominent place at this year’s show.

 

The mood in Frankfurt was mixed, as carmakers were optimistic about a buoyant U.S. economy and, to a lesser extent, a recovery in Europe. However, carmakers are uneasy about instability in the world’s largest car market – China. New competitor from internet giants are also perplexing traditional auto players. The Volkswagen diesel scandal was another factor dampening the mood halfway through the show.

 

Autonomous, Electric, and Concept Cars: The Future is Now

As usual, German manufacturers had a major presence at the IAA. Audi built a huge temporary building the size of a typical retail box store, and BMW occupied an entire building the size of some city’s convention center. Other European carmakers also drew some buzz with exciting debuts and unveilings.

 

Mercedes’ big reveal in Frankfurt was its new Concept Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile, Concept IAA for short. The “Transformer” car’s major innovations are extendable aerodynamic parts that deploy in the front and back at high speeds, improving airflow while in movement, but maintaining a distinctively stylish appeal while at rest. This technological high-wizardry was enabled by the digitalization of the design concept, which allowed for the development of aerodynamic flow simulations. The digitalization of automotive development and production is referred to in automotive industry circles as “Industry 4.0. The Concept IAA also featured a whole slew of autonomous and connectivity features, with sensors, car to x communications, and autonomous driving functions.

 

The venerable carmaker held a massive press conference to present the IAA along with four new models, the C-Class Coupé and the S-Class Cabriolet, and their respective standalone AMG versions.

 

Porsche attracted a lot of attention with the release of its Mission E Concept. Located in the VW Group hall, the fully electric sports car was quickly labelled as a Tesla fighter. The Mission E claims a range of almost 500 Km and an ability to recharge 80 percent of this range in 15 minutes, because of its use of 800 volts charging port. Customers can expect a production of the Mission E Concept within a couple of years.

 

Using the same battery technology, Audi’s all electric e-tron Quattro is Audi’s answer to the Tesla Model X, with an estimated range of close to 500 Km and a charging time of 50 minutes. While still a concept today, Audi is planning a production model of the crossover for 2018.

 

BMW CEO Harald Krüger made headlines around the world for all the wrong reasons as he fainted onstage during a news conference he was hosting. The CEO was in the process of unveiling a facelifted BMW flagship 7-series sedan. The BMW design team reworked the 7-series with a large kidney grille on the front, which also serves the dual purpose of increasing the aerodynamics of the car and controlling engine cooling through computer control. The entire inside cabin has also been reworked in order to create a viable competitor to Mercedes’ S-Class.

 

BMW Chief Finance Officer Friedrich Eichiner also announced that it was in talk with Toyota for a possible expansion of their existing alliance. The two carmakers are working together on fuel-cell vehicle technology and recently showed a prototype vehicle, the BMW 5-series with a hydrogen engine. Analysts believe that this announcement signals a larger trend toward further consolidation in the automotive industry. This is driven by increased pressure for investment in new technology and slower industry growth. Fiat-Chrysler has pursued and been denied an alliance with GM, while Daimler AG has an alliance to build small vehicles with Renault-Nissan.

 

Toyota followed up on the 2014 presentation of a design study of its C-HR Concept at the Paris Motor Show with the unveiling of an updated practical model. The C-HR is addressing the need for a small sized SUV in Toyota’s line-up, created when it took the RAV4 upmarket. While no launch date was announced, further changes will be unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2016, bringing it closer to a production-ready model. Toyota also unveiled the 4th generation Prius as well as a hybrid version of the RAV4.

 

GM had a large presence at the show compared to its American brethren. GM global CEO Marry Barra was present to unveil the new Opel-Vauxhall Astra family sedan. The Astra is sold by Opel, in Europe, and Vauxhall, in England, and competed with the VW Golf and the Ford Focus. The model can boast a series of connectivity systems, such as OnStar and the new generation IntelliLink, which connects to Google’s Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay. Lane Departure Warning, Collision Alert, Collision Imminent Braking and computerized parking will also be available on this down-market model.

 

Classic German carmaker BORGWARD debuted its new BX7 SUV, the brand’s first offering since 1961. Looking a lot like Audi’s Q5, the BX7 will launch in China early next year before coming back to Europe. The first BORGWARD factory has already been built in Beijing. A second vehicle model is expected in the spring, which will be followed by more releases. The Company targets sales of five hundred million cars in the medium term and 1.6 million cars by 2025. The company is positioning itself as a premium brand and is expected to develop hybrid and electric variants of its vehicles in the near future.

 

Tesla debuted its Model S P90D in Europe at the IAA. The model which sits atop the premium electric automakers range offers zero emission and a sleek design. The debut of the P90D was, however, shadowed by news that Tesla’s Model S had only sold 958 units this year through August, below BMW’s i3. Taking into account that both Porsche and Audi released model clearly aiming to take Tesla head on in the global market, the show was perhaps a reality check for Tesla in Europe. The electric carmakers has yet to fill its European sales chief position.

 

Suppliers Make a Big Splash

The Frankfurt Motor Show was further proof that while major OEMs might see the automotive ambitions of Google, Apple, and company as a looming threat, German tier 1 suppliers are gleeful at the rich prospects presented by the growing connected-car business.

 

Bosch GmbH, Continental AG and ZF Friedrichshafen AG have all leveraged their automotive know-how to work closely with U.S. technology giants. The large German suppliers have also aggressively invested in the radar sensors, cameras, software and other advanced driver-assistance technology that are forming the basic pieces of the autonomous car puzzle. By doing so, they hope to maintain their dominant position in the industry.

 

ZF displayed the latest version of a small electric-driven autonomous car that is has called the Advanced Urban Vehicle to showcase its technology, as well as that of TRW technology, which it acquired for $12 billion earlier this year, largely to complement its drives and transmissions business with TRW’s driver assistance systems and auto safety expertise.

 

In line with its recent purchase of TRW, ZF showcased its camera and radar technologies as well as its Automatic Emergency Braking and Emergency Steering Control. Company executives also outlined steps taken to ensure that the merger process unfolds smoothly and that the new divisions are integrating without any hiccups.

 

Continental showcased an array of autonomous driving technologies, advanced seating capabilities, tire technologies and powertrain systems to prospective OEM customers. These included the reveal of Car Port, an in-car dashboard interface that enables users to interact with IoE devices. Probable uses include opening a garage door or opening the house lights when a car approaches the owner’s homes.

 

Continental beefed up its automotive software business in May by acquiring Finnish industrial group Elektrobit Oyi for $680 million. Half of its engineering staff is now composed of software engineers.

 

Meanwhile, Bosch has developed into the world’s leading manufacturer of radar systems. Frankfurt allowed it to showcase its remote parking system that allows a car to autonomously find an open space in a garage and park itself. Bosch displayed a whole series of products ranging from cleaner, more powerful engine technology, to connectivity features, electrification technology and autonomous driving systems.

 

Chairman of the Board of Management Dr. Volkmar Denner sounded a triumphal tone, stating that “Bosch is assuming a leading role in the transformation that is about to sweep through the automotive sector. Automation, electrification, and connectivity – Bosch is already enjoying success in all three areas.” Bosch believes that automation, electrification, and connectivity are the major pillars creating the automotive of the future. As such, Dr. Denner outlined his company’s vision and efforts in all three sectors.

 

Editors Notes:

The LIASE Group is a retained executive search and talent management consultancy, which specialises in the global automotive sector. We provide CEO and top management placements & succession expertise across multinational automotive suppliers. Our expertize is our in-depth understanding of conventional and unconventional automotive companies with sector expertise including OEM’s, importers, auto financing, auto leasing, auto dealers, private equity firms and tier 1 suppliers.

 

PR Contact: Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia (Tel: +852 2840 0406)
info@liase-group.com

LIASE Group Managing Director for the Americas John Bukowicz (left), LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel (center) and LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (right) standing in front of the Mercedes-Benz logo at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

LIASE Group Managing Director for the Americas John Bukowicz (left), LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel (center) and LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (right) standing in front of the Mercedes-Benz logo at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel standing in front of the Renault booth at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Renault unveiled a new Megane, which stands at the bottom rung of its upmarket range. With a design that seeks to be bold and outstanding, the Megane sports a large touchscreen in the cabin. It will be competing with the VW Golf and the Peugeot 308.

LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel standing in front of the Renault booth at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Renault unveiled a new Megane, which stands at the bottom rung of its upmarket range. With a design that seeks to be bold and outstanding, the Megane sports a large touchscreen in the cabin. It will be competing with the VW Golf and the Peugeot 308.

LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel (left) and LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (right) pose for a picture during the Frankfurt Motor Show.

LIASE Group Managing Director Asia Vanessa Moriel (left) and LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (right) pose for a picture during the Frankfurt Motor Show.

LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell stands next to an antique ambulance at the 2015 IAA.

LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell stands next to an antique ambulance at the 2015 IAA.

LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (Centre), and LIASE Group Managing Director Americas John Bukowicz (right) pose for a picture in Frankfurt.

LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolfgang Doell (Centre), and LIASE Group Managing Director Americas John Bukowicz (right) pose for a picture in Frankfurt.

Automobilwoche Managing Director Helmut Kluger (left) posing next to LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolgang Doell in front of a Borgward engine.

Automobilwoche Managing Director Helmut Kluger (left) posing next to LIASE Group President and Managing Director Europe Wolgang Doell in front of a Borgward engine.

Fortified from a partnership with Chinese carmaker Beiqi Foton Motor Company, mostly known for its commercial vehicle production, as well as its partnership with Mercedes-Benz in the Chinese market, Borgward unveiled the BX7 hybrid SUV to the crowd in Frankfurt. The first brand offering from Borgward in nearly half a century, the new SUV will launch in emerging markets before making its way to Europe in the next 2 years. There are still no word on whether the German brand would make a return to the U.S. market. The German SUV is expected to compete with the Audi Q5, the Porsche Macan, and the Buick Enclave in the Chinese market.

Fortified from a partnership with Chinese carmaker Beiqi Foton Motor Company, mostly known for its commercial vehicle production, as well as its partnership with Mercedes-Benz in the Chinese market, Borgward unveiled the BX7 hybrid SUV to the crowd in Frankfurt. The first brand offering from Borgward in nearly half a century, the new SUV will launch in emerging markets before making its way to Europe in the next 2 years. There are still no word on whether the German brand would make a return to the U.S. market. The German SUV is expected to compete with the Audi Q5, the Porsche Macan, and the Buick Enclave in the Chinese market.

Benz AG CEO Dieter Zetsche unveiled the futuristic looking Concept IAA in front of a massive crowd at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Benz AG CEO Dieter Zetsche unveiled the futuristic looking Concept IAA in front of a massive crowd at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel examining Mercedes-Benz’s new Concept car in Frankfurt.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel examining Mercedes-Benz’s new Concept car in Frankfurt.

All five of Mercedes-Benz’s new models are shown together at the Frankfurt Motor Show Mercedes Benz press conference.

All five of Mercedes-Benz’s new models are shown together at the Frankfurt Motor Show Mercedes Benz press conference.

Bosch had an impressive presence at the Motor Show, rivaling some of the smaller OEMs. Amongst the many technologies it showcased was a second generation low-cost, 48-volt hybrid system with a smaller lithium-ion battery and less expensive components compared to existing systems. The system will assist combustion engines during acceleration, is capable of regenerative braking, and provides a 15-percent fuel economy improvement. The new model shown in Frankfurt had a transmission-integrated electric motor capable of powering a remote-controlled automatic parking system.

Bosch had an impressive presence at the Motor Show, rivaling some of the smaller OEMs. Amongst the many technologies it showcased was a second generation low-cost, 48-volt hybrid system with a smaller lithium-ion battery and less expensive components compared to existing systems. The system will assist combustion engines during acceleration, is capable of regenerative braking, and provides a 15-percent fuel economy improvement. The new model shown in Frankfurt had a transmission-integrated electric motor capable of powering a remote-controlled automatic parking system.

PSA CEO Carlos Tavares speaking at the New Mobility World Forum. Connectivity and autonomy were ubiquitous at the Motor Show in Frankfurt. 150 technology companies, automotive companies, and mobile service providers gathered at a new exhibition area called the “New Mobility World’ to highlight the mobility of tomorrow. The Exhibit revolved around 5 topics, “Connected Car,” “Automated Driving,” “E-Mobility,” “Urban Mobility,” and “Mobility Services.” G7 transportation ministers gathered on September 17 at the “New Mobility World” forum.  Key executives expected at the exhibition included PSA CEO Carlos Tavares, Chris Urmson, the head of Google’s driverless car program, and Mike McNamara, CEO of the electronics giant Flex (formerly Flextronics).

PSA CEO Carlos Tavares speaking at the New Mobility World Forum. Connectivity and autonomy were ubiquitous at the Motor Show in Frankfurt. 150 technology companies, automotive companies, and mobile service providers gathered at a new exhibition area called the “New Mobility World’ to highlight the mobility of tomorrow. The Exhibit revolved around 5 topics, “Connected Car,” “Automated Driving,” “E-Mobility,” “Urban Mobility,” and “Mobility Services.” G7 transportation ministers gathered on September 17 at the “New Mobility World” forum. Key executives expected at the exhibition included PSA CEO Carlos Tavares, Chris Urmson, the head of Google’s driverless car program, and Mike McNamara, CEO of the electronics giant Flex (formerly Flextronics).

Porsche’s Mission E was one of the most talked about debuts at the show, as it signalled the luxury carmaker’s entry into the electric car market. Exaggerated design clearly signaled that the car remains in the conceptual stage, but the performance specs made its very clear that the Mission E, once it enters the market, will be competing head-to-head with Tesla.

Porsche’s Mission E was one of the most talked about debuts at the show, as it signalled the luxury carmaker’s entry into the electric car market. Exaggerated design clearly signaled that the car remains in the conceptual stage, but the performance specs made its very clear that the Mission E, once it enters the market, will be competing head-to-head with Tesla.

Interior cabin of the Concept Mission E. Porsche specifically aims to beat Tesla in charging, as it claims its battery system will be able to recharge 80-percent of its battery power in just 15 minutes, providing around 400 Kilometres of range.

Interior cabin of the Concept Mission E. Porsche specifically aims to beat Tesla in charging, as it claims its battery system will be able to recharge 80-percent of its battery power in just 15 minutes, providing around 400 Kilometres of range.

Lamborghini unveiled the Huracan LP 610-4 Spyder convertible in Frankfurt. The super sports car will boast a 602bhp 5.2-litre V10 engine once it goes on sale next spring.

Lamborghini unveiled the Huracan LP 610-4 Spyder convertible in Frankfurt. The super sports car will boast a 602bhp 5.2-litre V10 engine once it goes on sale next spring.

Bugatti’s Vision GT Concept caught the eye of many a car lover in Frankfurt. Unfortunately for anyone who wanted to own one, the concept car is not intended for production, but for a game console. The Vision GT was designed and engineered for Playstation’s Gran Turismo 6. Nevertheless, the Vision GT was understood to preview the new design language for Bugatti.

Bugatti’s Vision GT Concept caught the eye of many a car lover in Frankfurt. Unfortunately for anyone who wanted to own one, the concept car is not intended for production, but for a game console. The Vision GT was designed and engineered for Playstation’s Gran Turismo 6. Nevertheless, the Vision GT was understood to preview the new design language for Bugatti.

Audi’s all electric e-tron Quattro boast the same battery system as the Porsche E Mission Concept. The crossover SUV uses 3 electric motors, one for the front wheels and two for the back. This should give it the kind of performance drivers expect from the German luxury automaker.

Audi’s all electric e-tron Quattro boast the same battery system as the Porsche E Mission Concept. The crossover SUV uses 3 electric motors, one for the front wheels and two for the back. This should give it the kind of performance drivers expect from the German luxury automaker.

Bentley unveiled an ultra-luxury SUV, the Bentayga. Rumours have it that the first unit will be delivered to Queen Elizabeth II. The British company can produce between 3000-4500 Bentaygas per year. Based on VW Group’s MLB-Evo platform, the Bentayga has a computer controlled air spring system, a rounded yet front mesh grilles filled design, and a W12 engine with 600 hp at 6000rpm and 663 lb-ft of torque between 1250rpm and 4500rpm.

Bentley unveiled an ultra-luxury SUV, the Bentayga. Rumours have it that the first unit will be delivered to Queen Elizabeth II. The British company can produce between 3000-4500 Bentaygas per year. Based on VW Group’s MLB-Evo platform, the Bentayga has a computer controlled air spring system, a rounded yet front mesh grilles filled design, and a W12 engine with 600 hp at 6000rpm and 663 lb-ft of torque between 1250rpm and 4500rpm.

Jaguar unveiled its first ever SUV, called the F-Pace. Initially announced in Detroit earlier this year, the stylish luxury sports utility will be entering the increasingly crowded luxury SUV space just as auto demand in emerging markets is being questioned.

Jaguar unveiled its first ever SUV, called the F-Pace. Initially announced in Detroit earlier this year, the stylish luxury sports utility will be entering the increasingly crowded luxury SUV space just as auto demand in emerging markets is being questioned.

Mercedes-Benz presented a beautiful cabriolet version of its AMG S63 4Matic.

Mercedes-Benz presented a beautiful cabriolet version of its AMG S63 4Matic.

The new X1 with a sportier design was shown off by BMW.

The new X1 with a sportier design was shown off by BMW.

Infiniti unveiled the Q30, a small crossover/hatchback presently only available in the sport and premium versions.

Infiniti unveiled the Q30, a small crossover/hatchback presently only available in the sport and premium versions.

The Mercedes IAA concept garnered significant media attention due to its high-tech take on aerodynamics and automotive design.

The Mercedes IAA concept garnered significant media attention due to its high-tech take on aerodynamics and automotive design.

BMW unveiled a reworked version of its flagship 7 Series in Frankfurt. BMW significantly reworked the cabin space, ensuring that everything is covered by wood, leather, or aluminum.

BMW unveiled a reworked version of its flagship 7 Series in Frankfurt. BMW significantly reworked the cabin space, ensuring that everything is covered by wood, leather, or aluminum.

August 2, 2015

LIASE Group Attends 2015 ANE Congress with Top European Automotive Leaders

Wolfgang Doell, President and Asia MD, LIASE Group (rightmost) standing with Michael Earp, Chief Executive, Magma People (second from the right) and a group of delegates.

Summary: LIASE Group sponsored the ANE Congress in Birmingham, June 9-10, 2015. The Congress brought together top level automotive leaders from across Europe to discuss the most important topics presently affecting the industry.

 

Article: Wolfgang Doell, President and MD Europe, LIASE Group President and Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, LIASE Group Participated in the ANE Congress in Birmingham, June 9 – 10, 2015. Established in 1997, the Congress regroups some of the most influential decision-makers in the global automotive sector. LIASE Group was a silver sponsor of the Congress. This year’s theme was “Reinvented and Reinvigorated.”
 
Commenting on the Congress, Wolfgang Doell, President and MD Europe, LIASE Group noted that “sponsoring the ANE Congress gave us the opportunity to further our relationship with global automotive decision-makers. By having a presence at the world’s most important automotive events, we are able to further our understanding of the major trends that affect the global automotive sector, all the while forging personal bonds with the leaders in the sector. Because of this, we are able to provide highly specialized services to clients in the automotive industry.”
 
The Congress attracted a number of CEO and Board Members from major OEMs in Europe who made far ranging remarks and provided their insights on the global automotive sector.
 
In his keynote speech on the evening of the 10th, Ralf Speth, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover indicated that while car buyers are still not completely onboard with fully electric vehicles, the next generation of battery technology could very well change that. “Battery technology today is still too heavy, too expensive and the [power] density is too low,” he was quoted as saying by the Automotive News Europe following his keynote speech.
 
Land Rover is known to be working on electric drivetrains; developments that will be showcased in a prototype Range Rover Evoque expected to be unveiled in the coming months. Speth believes that lowering emissions is very important for automakers, warning that not doing so could turn away a whole segment of its customer base who has strong environmental concerns.
 
Linda Jackson, CEO, Citroen spoke about the brand’s repositioning towards “fun.” Jackson said the brand wanted to give people a happy feeling. This comes at a time when PSA/Peugeot-Citroen has stated its desire to reduce the number of models in its lineup, from 14 now, to seven by 2022. Jackson said that these 7 core models would be used as platforms from which variants would be produced.
 
Bo Andersson, CEO of Russia’s largest carmaker, AvtoVAZ said that most automotive plants in Russia are not producing enough vehicles to be cost competitive. Mr. Andersson pointed in particular at Ford’s 3 factories in the country, along with GM’s 2 plants. “I would say only 5 [out of the country’s 15 car plants] are sustainable, and they are the ones with production volumes over 175,000,” he said during the ANE Congress. GM has already announced it is stopping production at its St. Petersburg factory in the wake of slumping car sales following recent political upheavals in Russia.
 
Andersson expects Russian sales to decline by 36% this year and expects that it will take close to a decade for sales to rebound to their previous peaks. AvtoVAZ, which makes the world-famous Lada has benefitted from the downturn by attracting Chevy and Opel dealers, both brands are exiting the market. Andersson is optimistic his company will be able to turn a profit this year.
 
Andy Palmer, CEO, Aston Martin said that his company would choose the location for its new DBX crossover in the third quarter of 2015. The plant will seemingly be located in the UK or the U.S. the automaker’s current plant in Gaydon, central England is presently at capacity. Aston Martin plans to increase annual vehicle sales from 4,000 in 2014, to 15,000 in 2019. Alabama is seen as a likely frontrunner for the establishment of the plant. Aston Martin would then benefit from the proximity to Mercedes’ plant in Tucalussa. Daimler, which has a 5% stake in Aston Martin, is cooperating with the UK carmaker to supply it with high-performance V-8 Engines.
 
A number of executives at the event expressed their hope that the UK would remain in the European Union following the election of David Cameron’s majority government in the UK. Cameron has promised a referendum on the future of the UK in the EU within the next 2 years. Peter Schwarzenbauer, Management Board Member responsible for the Mini and Rolls-Royce brands, BMW Group said the he “would not be very happy if Britain exited the EU. It would be bad for both sides.”
 
JLR CEO Ralf Speth said that 20 percent of his company’s cars were sold in the EU, while many parts and components are imported from the continent. “We are very interested in having a free exchange of goods and technology so we can prosper together,” declared Speth to the Automotive News Europe following his keynote speech.
 
Hakan Samuelsson, CEO, Volvo, said the importance of short-term trade flows paled in comparison to the EU’s role as a counterweight to Asia and the NAFTA bloc. “I believe we need a strong Europe in the global competition against Asia-Pacific and the U.S.,” said Samuelsson.
 
The ANE Congress was also the site of two award ceremonies: the sixth annual L.E.A.D.E.R Awards recognizing excellence in the OEM, supplier and retail categories; and, the fifth annual Rising Star program, which recognizes Europe’s top talents the day before the Congress on June 9th, 2015.
 
Editors Notes:

The LIASE Group is a retained executive search and talent management consultancy, which specialises in the global automotive sector. We provide CEO and top management placements & succession expertise across multinational automotive suppliers. Our expertize is our in-depth understanding of conventional and unconventional automotive companies with sector expertise including OEM’s, importers, auto financing, auto leasing, auto dealers, private equity firms and tier 1 suppliers.

PR Contact: Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia (Tel: +852 2840 0406)
info@liase-group.com

 

Wolfgang Doell, President and MD Europe, LIASE Group (rightmost) standing with Michael Earp, Chief Executive, Magma People (second from the right) and a group of delegates.

Wolfgang Doell, President and MD Europe, LIASE Group (rightmost) standing with Michael Earp, Chief Executive, Magma People (second from the right) and a group of delegates.

Wolfgang Doell (left), President and MD Europe, LIASE Group; Vic H. Doolan (middle right), Non-Executive Member of the Board, LIASE Group; and, Thomas heringer, News Director, Automobilewoche & Automotive News pose for a picture at the ANE Congress in Birmingham.

Wolfgang Doell (left), President and MD Europe, LIASE Group; Vic H. Doolan (middle right), Non-Executive Member of the Board, LIASE Group; and, Thomas heringer, News Director, Automobilewoche & Automotive News pose for a picture at the ANE Congress in Birmingham.

Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, LIASE Group, takes a picture at the 2015 ANE Congress.

Vic H. Doolan, Non-Executive Member of the Board, LIASE Group, takes a picture at the 2015 ANE Congress.

Andy Palmer, CEO, Aston Martin speaking during the ANE Congress. Mr. Palmer took over the luxury sports carmaker in September after coming over from Nissan. Aston plans on adding a crossover to its lineup as well as leveraging its technology partnership with Daimler. Its goal is to reach long-term sustainability.  The crossover could also be joined by a new sedan and an unknown third model.

Andy Palmer, CEO, Aston Martin speaking during the ANE Congress. Mr. Palmer took over the luxury sports carmaker in September after coming over from Nissan. Aston plans on adding a crossover to its lineup as well as leveraging its technology partnership with Daimler. Its goal is to reach long-term sustainability. The crossover could also be joined by a new sedan and an unknown third model.

Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management, BMW AG, is currently responsible for the MINI, BMW Motorrad and Rolls-Royce brands and BMW Group Aftersales. He warned of about a potential UK exit from the European Union.

Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management, BMW AG, is currently responsible for the MINI, BMW Motorrad and Rolls-Royce brands and BMW Group Aftersales. He warned of about a potential UK exit from the European Union.

Bo Andersson, CEO, AvtoVAZ previously worked with GM before being appointed president and CEO of GAZ Group in 2009 and then AVTOVAZ, in 2014, Russia’s largest automaker, as President. Andersoon remains positive in the face of a declining Russian economy.

Bo Andersson, CEO, AvtoVAZ previously worked with GM before being appointed president and CEO of GAZ Group in 2009 and then AVTOVAZ, in 2014, Russia’s largest automaker, as President. Andersoon remains positive in the face of a declining Russian economy.

Horst Hanschur, Director Sales Strategy and Retail Business Development, Audi AG.

Horst Hanschur, Director Sales Strategy and Retail Business Development, Audi AG.

Simon Dixon, Founder, Rockar.com followed in the family footstep by working in the car retailing industry. He founded Rockar, in 2012, as the world’s first digital car retailer. It enables customers to choose their new car, exchange parts for their current cars, select financing option and pay for their purchase online or in store.

Simon Dixon, Founder, Rockar.com followed in the family footstep by working in the car retailing industry. He founded Rockar, in 2012, as the world’s first digital car retailer. It enables customers to choose their new car, exchange parts for their current cars, select financing option and pay for their purchase online or in store.

Left to right: Steve Young, Managing Director, ICDP; Simon Dixon, Founder, Rockar.com; and, Horst Hanschur, Director Sales Strategy and Retail Business Development, Audi AG.

Left to right: Steve Young, Managing Director, ICDP; Simon Dixon, Founder, Rockar.com; and, Horst Hanschur, Director Sales Strategy and Retail Business Development, Audi AG.

Arndt Ellinghorst, CEO, Evercore ISI Europe, provided his analysis of the automotive industry. He is bullish on the automotive sector, but pointed out that 50% of OEMs are not turning a profit. That is because they have not been good at passing on cost to their end users. Suppliers on the other hand have been very good investment, providing good returns for investors.

Arndt Ellinghorst, CEO, Evercore ISI Europe, provided his analysis of the automotive industry. He is bullish on the automotive sector, but pointed out that 50% of OEMs are not turning a profit. That is because they have not been good at passing on cost to their end users. Suppliers on the other hand have been very good investment, providing good returns for investors.

Annette Winkler, Vice President, Head of Smart, Daimler AG, has been the head of the new Smart product division since September 2010. In this role, she was the first woman to ever lead an automotive brand in Europe.

Annette Winkler, Vice President, Head of Smart, Daimler AG, has been the head of the new Smart product division since September 2010. In this role, she was the first woman to ever lead an automotive brand in Europe.

Linda Jackson, CEO, Citroen, was appointed in her current position in June 2014. She has been overseeing a makeover of the brand towards a more positive and joyful image.

Linda Jackson, CEO, Citroen, was appointed in her current position in June 2014. She has been overseeing a makeover of the brand towards a more positive and joyful image.

Olivier Francois, President & CEO Fiat Brand CMO, FCA-Global speaking at the 2015 ANE Congress.

Olivier Francois, President & CEO Fiat Brand CMO, FCA-Global speaking at the 2015 ANE Congress.

Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO, Volvo Car Corporation, was appointed in his present position in October 2012. Samuelsson has repositioned the brand through a renewed focus on design, safety and customer focus. Volvo has also benefitted from its newfound access to the Chinese market, thanks to its merger with Geely.

Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO, Volvo Car Corporation, was appointed in his present position in October 2012. Samuelsson has repositioned the brand through a renewed focus on design, safety and customer focus. Volvo has also benefitted from its newfound access to the Chinese market, thanks to its merger with Geely.

Left to right: Douglas A. Bolduc, Managing Editor, Automotive News Europe (Moderator) ; Steve Young, managing partner at ICDP; Simon Dixon, Sounder, Rockar; Horst Hanschur, Director of Sales Strategy and Retail Business Development, Audi; and, Peter Fuss, Senior Advisory Partner Automotive. The panel discussed European retail business development. According to Audi’s Horst Hanschur, retailers are no longer able to only focus on new cars. According to Hanschur, dealership profit now comes from aftersales services and selling used cars. Panelist Steve Young said automakers need to cut down their dealer network to ensure profitability in remaining stores.

Left to right: Douglas A. Bolduc, Managing Editor, Automotive News Europe (Moderator) ; Steve Young, managing partner at ICDP; Simon Dixon, Sounder, Rockar; Horst Hanschur, Director of Sales Strategy and Retail Business Development, Audi; and, Peter Fuss, Senior Advisory Partner Automotive. The panel discussed European retail business development. According to Audi’s Horst Hanschur, retailers are no longer able to only focus on new cars. According to Hanschur, dealership profit now comes from aftersales services and selling used cars. Panelist Steve Young said automakers need to cut down their dealer network to ensure profitability in remaining stores.

Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg accepting a 2015 L.E.A.D.E.R. award during the evening of the 10th of June at the ANE Congress in Birmingham.  Dr Hackenberg is Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. The award honored Audi for setting new standards in the field of lightweight design and piloted driving. These innovation are showcased in the new Audi Q7, which is 325 kilograms lighter than precursor models.

Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg accepting a 2015 L.E.A.D.E.R. award during the evening of the 10th of June at the ANE Congress in Birmingham. Dr Hackenberg is Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. The award honored Audi for setting new standards in the field of lightweight design and piloted driving. These innovation are showcased in the new Audi Q7, which is 325 kilograms lighter than precursor models.

Christophe Aufrère, Vice President of Technology Strategy, Faurecia, accepts a 2015 L.E.A.D.E.R. award on behalf of his company. Faurecia was recognized in the supplier category for its innovations in weight reduction and energy efficiency. In 2014, the group registered 505 patents for new products, materials and manufacturing techniques.

Christophe Aufrère, Vice President of Technology Strategy, Faurecia, accepts a 2015 L.E.A.D.E.R. award on behalf of his company. Faurecia was recognized in the supplier category for its innovations in weight reduction and energy efficiency. In 2014, the group registered 505 patents for new products, materials and manufacturing techniques.

Dr. Ralf Speth, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover was the keynote speaker at the Congress gala on the evening of the 10th.

Dr. Ralf Speth, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover was the keynote speaker at the Congress gala on the evening of the 10th.

More than 250 delegate from over 100 companies were expected at the Congress in Birmingham.

More than 250 delegate from over 100 companies were expected at the Congress in Birmingham.

June 25, 2015

LIASE Group Hosts Automotive Executives Dinner on the Sidelines of the Shanghai Auto Show

LIASE founders John Bucowicz, Vanessa Moriel, and Wolgang Doell pose for a photo in front of Shanghai’s iconic Oriental Pearl Tower.

Summary: LIASE Group invited 65 top automotive executives to their automotive executive dinner on the sidelines of the Shanghai Auto Show this past April. The event allowed LIASE Group to meet with their clients and partners in an informal setting.

Article: LIASE Group celebrated the Shanghai Auto Show by partnering with Automobile Produktion, CBU, and CCPIT to organize an exclusive private dinner with 65 top automotive executives on the 1st Press Day of the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show. The cocktail reception and dinner at The House of Roosevelt on the Bund allowed LIASE Group to meet with their clients and partners in an informal setting – leaving more room for earnest discussion and the creation of new relationships.

“Outsider sometimes don’t realize that the Automotive Industry is first and foremost a people driven industry,” said LIASE Group President Wolgang Doell. “By hosting this event in what has become one of the world’s most important automotive hub, we are creating more connections across the industry, and bringing value to our clients by helping them forge lasting relationships with key people working in the international automotive industry.”

The event was a great success, with automotive executives working for OEMs, international organizations, and suppliers mixing together throughout the evening. LIASE Board Members and country heads joined the discussion and shared their insights, all the while enjoying the sights offered by the Huangpu River outside the window.

Editors Notes:

The LIASE Group is a retained executive search and talent management consultancy, which specialises in the global automotive sector. We provide CEO and top management placements & succession expertise across multinational automotive suppliers. Our expertize is our in-depth understanding of conventional and unconventional automotive companies with sector expertise including OEM’s, importers, auto financing, auto leasing, auto dealers, private equity firms and tier 1 suppliers.

 

PR Contact: Vanessa Moriel, Managing Director Asia  (Tel: +852 2840 0406)
info@liase-group.com

 

Left to right : RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst;   PAC Group, CEO, Shah Firozzi; and, NJF – Cie Automotive China, Chairman of the Board, John Mack.

Left to right : RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst; PAC Group, CEO, Shah Firozzi; and, NJF – Cie Automotive China, Chairman of the Board, John Mack.

Opening remarks were delivered by RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst and LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel.

Opening remarks were delivered by RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst and LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel.

Left to right: LIASE Group, President, Wolfgang Doell; LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz; and PR Manager, Rita Tucunduva

Left to right: LIASE Group, President, Wolfgang Doell; LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz; and PR Manager, Rita Tucunduva

RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst standing wth European Association of Automotive Suppliers, Deputy C.E.O, Amalia Di Stefano.

RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst standing wth European Association of Automotive Suppliers, Deputy C.E.O, Amalia Di Stefano.

Jato (Shanghai) Consulting Co., Ltd., President Greater China, Keith Lomonson talking with JSC (Shanghai) Automotive Consulting Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Jochan Siebert.

Jato (Shanghai) Consulting Co., Ltd., President Greater China, Keith Lomonson talking with JSC (Shanghai) Automotive Consulting Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Jochan Siebert.

Left to right : LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; Röechling Automotive, Chief Executive Officer, Erwin Doll; and, WKW Erbslöh Automotive GmbH, Managing Director, Günther Rahner.

Left to right : LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; Röechling Automotive, Chief Executive Officer, Erwin Doll; and, WKW Erbslöh Automotive GmbH, Managing Director, Günther Rahner.

Global Automotive Forum, Secretary General, James Chai and LIASE Group, Managing Director, Vanessa Moriel.

Global Automotive Forum, Secretary General, James Chai and LIASE Group, Managing Director, Vanessa Moriel.

Left to right: TomTom Navigation Technology (China) Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Tjerk-Friso Roelfzema; PAC Group, Vice President Business Development Asia Pacific, Frank Chou; and, Ascend Capital Partners, CEO, Monita Mo.

Left to right: TomTom Navigation Technology (China) Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Tjerk-Friso Roelfzema; PAC Group, Vice President Business Development Asia Pacific, Frank Chou; and, Ascend Capital Partners, CEO, Monita Mo.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; Dr. Schneider Unternehmensgruppe, Global General Manager Sales & Marketing, Parag Shah; and, Navinfo Co., Ltd., General Manager & Director to Product Innovation, Pedro Flebes Cortez.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; Dr. Schneider Unternehmensgruppe, Global General Manager Sales & Marketing, Parag Shah; and, Navinfo Co., Ltd., General Manager & Director to Product Innovation, Pedro Flebes Cortez.

Left to right: LIASE Group, President, Wolfgang Doell; LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz; and, MI-Verlage moderne Industrie, Publishing Director, Stefan Waldeisen.

Left to right: LIASE Group, President, Wolfgang Doell; LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz; and, MI-Verlage moderne Industrie, Publishing Director, Stefan Waldeisen.

AWL Automation Welding and Cutting Equipment (Wuxi) Co., Ltd., General Manager,  Dr. Zhanqi Guo  and Delphi Automotive Systems (China) Holding Co., Ltd., Powertrain Systems, Delphi Diesel Systems, Deputy Chief Engineer Diesel China, Dr. Li Xiaolu.

AWL Automation Welding and Cutting Equipment (Wuxi) Co., Ltd., General Manager, Dr. Zhanqi Guo and Delphi Automotive Systems (China) Holding Co., Ltd., Powertrain Systems, Delphi Diesel Systems, Deputy Chief Engineer Diesel China, Dr. Li Xiaolu.

Triton Private Equity, Industrial Adviser, Anders Jonsson (left) and Lumileds, Sr. Director R&D Automotive, Dr. Peter Stolk.

Triton Private Equity, Industrial Adviser, Anders Jonsson (left) and Lumileds, Sr. Director R&D Automotive, Dr. Peter Stolk.

Dinner guests celebrate the evenign with a cheer!

Dinner guests celebrate the evenign with a cheer!

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; TomTom Navigation Technology (China) Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Tjerk-Friso Roelfzema; Navinfo Co., Ltd., General Manager & Director to Product Innovation, Pedro Flebes Cortez; and, JSC (Shanghai) Automotive Consulting Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Jochan Siebert.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; TomTom Navigation Technology (China) Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Tjerk-Friso Roelfzema; Navinfo Co., Ltd., General Manager & Director to Product Innovation, Pedro Flebes Cortez; and, JSC (Shanghai) Automotive Consulting Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Jochan Siebert.

Dinner Guests celebrating together. Left to right: Global Automotive Forum, Secretary General, James Chai;  Röechling Automotive, Chief Executive Officer Erwin Doll; and, Newmark, Business Unit Director, Business Development and Commercial Asia, Jorge Rada.

Dinner Guests celebrating together. Left to right: Global Automotive Forum, Secretary General, James Chai; Röechling Automotive, Chief Executive Officer Erwin Doll; and, Newmark, Business Unit Director, Business Development and Commercial Asia, Jorge Rada.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; Valeo China, China Group President, Edouard de Pirey; and, RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; Valeo China, China Group President, Edouard de Pirey; and, RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; LIASE Group, Managing Director Korea, Kwang Soo Kim; LIASE Group, CEO, Wolfgang Doell; LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz; TomTom, VP Product Strategy & Marketing, Jan-Maarten de Vries; and, TomTom Navigation Technology (China) Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Tjerk-Friso Roelfzema.

Left to right: LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel; LIASE Group, Managing Director Korea, Kwang Soo Kim; LIASE Group, CEO, Wolfgang Doell; LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz; TomTom, VP Product Strategy & Marketing, Jan-Maarten de Vries; and, TomTom Navigation Technology (China) Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Tjerk-Friso Roelfzema.

Left to right: Inalfa Roof Systems Group, CEO Asia, Daniele Giannetti; RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst; and, Inalfa Roof Systems Group, VP Business Development and Sales, Bas Toering.

Left to right: Inalfa Roof Systems Group, CEO Asia, Daniele Giannetti; RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst; and, Inalfa Roof Systems Group, VP Business Development and Sales, Bas Toering.

RDW WVTA Autohoties, CDO, George Molenaar and Röechling Automotive, Chief Executive Officer, Erwin Doll.

RDW WVTA Autohoties, CDO, George Molenaar and Röechling Automotive, Chief Executive Officer, Erwin Doll.

JSC (Shanghai) Automotive Consulting Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Jochan Siebert and ACE-Force, CEO, Pieter Gabriëls.

JSC (Shanghai) Automotive Consulting Co., Ltd., Managing Director, Jochan Siebert and ACE-Force, CEO, Pieter Gabriëls.

There were a total of 65 guests for the dinner, which took place at the House Roosevelt of the Bund.

There were a total of 65 guests for the dinner, which took place at the House Roosevelt of the Bund.

LIASE founders John Bucowicz, Vanessa Moriel, and Wolgang Doell pose for a photo in front of Shanghai’s iconic Oriental Pearl Tower.

LIASE founders John Bucowicz, Vanessa Moriel, and Wolgang Doell pose for a photo in front of Shanghai’s iconic Oriental Pearl Tower.

The Dinner was an opportunity for executives to discuss business in an informal setting. Left to right: Lumileds, Sr. Director R&D Automotive, Dr. Peter Stolk, Triton Private Equity, Industrial Adviser, Anders Jonsson, Lean Nova, Vice President, Jan Bengtsson; and, RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst.

The Dinner was an opportunity for executives to discuss business in an informal setting. Left to right: Lumileds, Sr. Director R&D Automotive, Dr. Peter Stolk, Triton Private Equity, Industrial Adviser, Anders Jonsson, Lean Nova, Vice President, Jan Bengtsson; and, RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst.

NJF – Cie Automotive China, Chairman of the Board, John Mack; Lean Nova, Vice President, Jan Bengtsson; and, Lean Nova, CEO, Tomas Camen.

NJF – Cie Automotive China, Chairman of the Board, John Mack; Lean Nova, Vice President, Jan Bengtsson; and, Lean Nova, CEO, Tomas Camen.

The evening’s dinner was preceded by a cocktail party.

The evening’s dinner was preceded by a cocktail party.

RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst; Dr. Schneider Unternehmensgruppe, Global General Manager Sales & Marketing, Parag Shah; and, Sewells Group (China) Limited, CEO China, Chee Tuck Yap.

RAI Industry Platform, Chairman of the Board, Eddy van der Vorst; Dr. Schneider Unternehmensgruppe, Global General Manager Sales & Marketing, Parag Shah; and, Sewells Group (China) Limited, CEO China, Chee Tuck Yap.

Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, Head of Development, Wolfgang Sczygiol together with LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz.

Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, Head of Development, Wolfgang Sczygiol together with LIASE Group, Managing Director Americas, John Bukowicz.

Left to right: Nedschroef Holding B.V., Vice President M&S, Bert Van der Weiden; LIASE Group, President, Wolfgang Doell; and, LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel.

Left to right: Nedschroef Holding B.V., Vice President M&S, Bert Van der Weiden; LIASE Group, President, Wolfgang Doell; and, LIASE Group, Managing Director Asia, Vanessa Moriel.