German luxury automobile manufacturer Porsche has announced the appointment of Jörg Bartels as the new head of research and development. Bartels, 52, will join the company from Mercedes-Benz AG, where he currently oversees the global development of all powertrain systems. He will succeed Dr. Michael Steiner, who has been a member of the Executive Board since 2016 and will leave the company in May 2027.
Dr. Michael Steiner has had a long and distinguished career at Porsche, spanning almost 25 years. He joined the company in 2002 as Head of Innovations, Concepts & CAE, and has held various leadership positions, including responsibility for the Panamera model line and Complete Vehicle Development and Quality. Steiner has played a crucial role in shaping the 991 and 992 generations of the 911 and guiding the market launch of the Taycan, Porsche's first all-electric production vehicle.
Jörg Bartels brings over 26 years of experience in the automotive industry to his new role. He has worked in vehicle development for over two decades, from individual components to full vehicle platforms and product lines. Bartels has also served as President and CEO of Beijing Benz Automotive Co. (BBAC) in China and has led development organisations in Europe and Asia. He will be responsible for shaping and implementing the Sportwagenschmiede '35 strategy for the Research and Development division.
The Sportwagenschmiede '35 strategy was presented by Porsche at its Capital Markets Day recently. Dr. Michael Steiner was closely involved in developing this strategy, which aims to drive innovation and growth in the company. Steiner will remain in his post until May 2027, ensuring a smooth transition to his successor. Dr. Michael Leiters, Chairman of the Executive Board, said he and Steiner had prepared the transition together and would organise the handover in close coordination.
During his tenure, Dr. Michael Steiner has overseen several significant achievements, including Porsche's success in the FIA World Endurance Championship. The company took the LMP1 triple in 2017, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as the manufacturers' and drivers' titles. Steiner's understanding of technology has also been instrumental in carrying the core of the Porsche brand into the era of electric mobility.
Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, praised Steiner's contributions to the company, saying his understanding of technology was crucial in driving Porsche's success. Jörg Bartels will now take on the challenge of leading the Research and Development division and driving innovation in the company. With his extensive experience in the automotive industry, Bartels is well-equipped to shape the future of Porsche.
The handover marks a significant change in leadership at Porsche, but the company is confident that the transition will be smooth. With Dr. Steiner remaining in his post until May 2027, Porsche will continue to build on its recent successes, including its entry into Formula E and the development of the T-Hybrid powertrain in the 911 Carrera GTS and 911 Turbo S.
Key points
- Jörg Bartels will succeed Dr. Michael Steiner as head of research and development at Porsche in May 2027.
- Dr. Michael Steiner has been a member of the Executive Board since 2016 and will leave the company after almost 25 years.
- Jörg Bartels brings over 26 years of experience in the automotive industry to his new role.
