Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Baby Come Back: Wolfgang Bernhard returns to Daimler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/baby-come-back-wolfgang-bernhard-returns-to-daimler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/baby-come-back-wolfgang-bernhard-returns-to-daimler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/10/baby-come-back-wolfgang-bernhard-returns-to-daimler/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Wolfgang Bernhard is coming back to Daimler. The man who helped facilitate the sale of Chrysler to Cerebus, was instrumental in the Chrysler ME Four-Twelve supercar concept, and, most notably, the guy that drove the V10-powered Tomahawk motorcycle onto the stage at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show, will take over the van division of Mercedes-Benz on April 1st.

Bernard's return to Daimler comes as a bit of shock, considering he was the assumed successor to Dieter Zetsche as the head of M-B before he left under duress after a ten-year stint with the automaker. Soon afterward, he took the top position at Volkswagen and was later ousted after some boardroom shenanigans involving Ferdinand Piech.

Recently, Bernard was reportedly working as an advisor to Magna International, but in these tumultuous times, we're sure Wolfgang was looking for a more steady position.

[Source: Reuters]

Baby Come Back: Wolfgang Bernhard returns to Daimler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bernharddaimlervanwolfgangwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardTue, 10 Feb 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Wolfgang Bernhard is back... at Magna?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/wolfgang-bernhard-is-back-at-magna/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/wolfgang-bernhard-is-back-at-magna/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/wolfgang-bernhard-is-back-at-magna/#commentsFiled under:



This is the man who brought the world the Dodge Tomahawk and advised the three-headed dog in its acquisition of Chrysler from the Germans. Former Chrysler Chief Operating Officer Wolfgang Bernhard is apparently working in an advisory role to Magna International at is tries to find its way through the morass that is today's auto industry. Automotive News reports that Bernhard is currently focusing on Magna's Russian business. More than half of Magna's business is currently with U.S.-based automakers, which are going through a particularly hard time right now in case you hadn't noticed. Magna wants to increase its overseas sales and that's where Bernhard comes in. It's not known yet if Bernhard will take up a full-time spot with Magna, but we for one would like to see him back in the role of a major power player in the global auto industry.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Wolfgang Bernhard is back... at Magna? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>wolfgang bernhardwolfgangbernhardWed, 14 Jan 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the scenes at a Cerberus-owned Chrysler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/behind-the-scenes-at-a-cerberus-owned-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/behind-the-scenes-at-a-cerberus-owned-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/behind-the-scenes-at-a-cerberus-owned-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: ,



With Cerberus Capital Management just about to wrap up its purchase of Chrysler Group, it's interesting to see what the private-equity firm has in store for the No. 3 U.S. automaker. This Detroit News article shows very clearly that Cerberus isn't about to sit back and wait for results. In fact, Cerberus consultant/Chrysler head Wolfgang Bernhard is already taking the bull by the horns and doing what he does best, pushing edgy design and controlling costs. A good example was the final review for the Chrysler Imperial. He walked into the room and simply stated, "That car will never see the light of day." And that was that. Bernhard knows what he likes and doesn't like, and he'll make decisions like that on the spot.

Many think it was a good decision, but it's important for Chrysler to decide in what direction it wants to go. Edgy is good, but only if it fits into a cohesive corporate image. The Imperial didn't, and apparently at least one other current product doesn't seem to fit any longer either. It is believed that the PT Cruiser will be dropped at the end of its product cycle. Instead of offering such nice-but-niche vehicles, the company will instead focus on their core products, like the 300 and Ram replacements.

It sometimes seems obvious to us enthusiasts, but the main focus should be on vehicles that people actually want to buy. That can get lost in the shuffle when a company is too focused on the enormous costs involved in developing new models and new platforms. So Cerberus will help Chrysler get a grip on the basics - purchasing, manufacturing, product development and sales and marketing. From there they can try to add some zip back into the lineup and recapture the public's attention with fun and desirable product.

Click the Read link to learn more about the ways Cerberus plans to get Chrysler back on track, including expansion into other world markets. It's a good read.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Behind the scenes at a Cerberus-owned Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CerberusChrysler ImperialChryslerImperialWolfgang BernhardWolfgangBernhardThu, 02 Aug 2007 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #72]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/autoblog-podcast-72/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/autoblog-podcast-72/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/02/autoblog-podcast-72/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

We tried hard to get a podcast going last week, but it just wasn't good enough. This week, the internet gods smiled on us with solid connections that cleared the way for our incisor-sharp banter. Kicking off #72, we discuss the dual surprise from Ford and GM - profit! The US operations showed losses, but overseas branches pulled in the dough, and as Alex points out "money is money." Moving on to less dull subjects, the MINI Clubman was officially unveiled, and it seems like all of the growth is in its arse. There's more legroom in the back seat, and cargo space gets a boost, as well. In typical German fashion, they took the long way around to achieve what could have been a simple platform stretch. Speaking of Germans - Wolfgang Bernhard is officially in at Chrysler. That is, if Hades 3-headed guard dog can pull it together on the funding side. It's not much of a surprise, and we hope that he can right the good ship Chrysler.

Follow the jump for more or click a link below to download the show.

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #72

Autoblog Podcast #72 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogcerberuschryslerclubmanfordgmhyundaimininetworkpodcastprofitracingspeedtiburontoyotatvwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardThu, 02 Aug 2007 16:03:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #72Dan Roth43:49<![CDATA[Wolfgang Bernhard to become chairman of Chrysler Group]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/26/wolfgang-bernhard-to-become-chairman-of-chrysler-group/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/26/wolfgang-bernhard-to-become-chairman-of-chrysler-group/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/26/wolfgang-bernhard-to-become-chairman-of-chrysler-group/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to a German magazine referenced by Automotive News, Wolfgang Bernhard is expected to be announced as the Chrysler Group's chairman-in-waiting, pending DaimlerChrysler's sale of the automaker to Cerberus Capital Management. Currently Bernhard is an acting advisor, a consultant if you will, for Cerberus, and spends his days at Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters, presumably gathering info for Cerberus on what aspects of the business need the German exec's magic touch the most. When the sale happens and Bernhard officially moves in, the speculation is that current CEO Tom LaSorda will remain in his position and likely report to Bernhard.

Bernhard was formerly VW's brand chief, and before that he worked for Chrysler immediately following the "merger of equals" that resulted in DaimlerChrysler. Other former Chrysler execs are also advising Cerberus at the moment according to Automotive News, including the company's well respected former design chief Tom Gale. Hopefully the news of Bernhard's official return, when it comes, will portend the return of other key Chrysler execs that can aid the company's turnaround efforts.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Wolfgang Bernhard to become chairman of Chrysler Group originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jul 2007 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bernhardcerberuscerberus capital managementCerberusCapitalManagementchairmanchryslerchrysler groupChryslerGroupdaimlerchryslerexpire-images:2008-7-25tom galetom lasordaTomGaleTomLasordawolfgangwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardThu, 26 Jul 2007 12:38:00 EST<![CDATA[What's up with Wolfgang? He's back at Chrysler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/whats-up-with-wolfgang-hes-back-at-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/whats-up-with-wolfgang-hes-back-at-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/whats-up-with-wolfgang-hes-back-at-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Immediately following the sale of Chrysler to Cerberus, people began speculating on what role former Chrysler exec Wolfgang Bernhard would take up in the newly minted Chrysler Corp. Even we jumped on the bandwagon and suggested Bernhard, who had been hired on by Cerberus to advise the sale, would be a likely replacement for Tom LaSorda if the automaker's current CEO couldn't turn around the company's fortune. The Wall Street Journal is reporting, however, that Bernhard will act as a high-level advisor and report directly to Cerberus founder Stephen Feinberg.

The interesting thing is that Bernhard has been present at nearly every meeting since the acquisition was announced. He currently has an office on the executive floor of Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters and has been seen making the rounds, even stopping by the design studio to point out what he likes and dislikes in future designs.

Cerberus makes it clear, however, that Bernhard is not part of the Chrysler executive team, which begs the question, why is he there? It seems to us that Bernhard's considerable talent in having an eye for good product and dealing with the unions will be extremely valuable to LaSorda and his team while they attempt to bring Chrysler back to profitability. At the same time, Bernhard's role also comes off as a strategy by Cerberus to keep the Chrysler execs, specifically LaSorda, focused in their task. Should they fail, Bernhard won't have to move his desk far to take over the CEO role. Hopefully it doesn't come to that, and the two execs will form a relationship similar to the one used effectively by GM CEO Rick Wagoner and his product man, Bob Lutz.

[Source: Wall Street Journal via Motor Authority]

What's up with Wolfgang? He's back at Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceocerberuschrysler corp.ChryslerCorp.tom lasordaTomLasordawolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardFri, 01 Jun 2007 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Tell us what you really think: Lee Iacocca slams Daimler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/tell-us-what-you-really-think-lee-iacocca-slams-daimler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/tell-us-what-you-really-think-lee-iacocca-slams-daimler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/tell-us-what-you-really-think-lee-iacocca-slams-daimler/#commentsFiled under: ,

There aren't that many people in the world who have a stronger emotional connection to Chrysler Corp. than Lee Iacocca, father of the minivan and savior for Chrysler during the early '80s. In an article featured in BusinessWeek, Iacocca reveals his feelings and thoughts about Daimler AG's sale of Chrysler to Cerberus Capital Managment, a private equity firm.

In no uncertain terms, Iacocca comes right out and says, "Daimler screwed Chrysler royally." He argues that Chrysler was healthy, even powerful, before the merger, and has been left half dead by Daimler, which retreats back across the Atlantic to Germany as we speak (our eloquent prose, not his). Nevertheless, Chrysler's ex-CEO is optimistic about his old employer's fate, and makes a case for Cerberus being exactly the right kind of private equity firm to buy Chrysler.

Thanks for the tip, Alison!

[Source: BusinessWeek]

Related posts:
Cerberus buying Chrysler for $7.4 billion
LaSorda speaks: We're not breaking up the band!
Jeep employees pissed about Chrysler sale
Chrysler Corp. gives CAW written guarantee jobs are safe
Wolfgang Bernhard will not be a part of the Chrysler deal. Yet!

Continue reading Tell us what you really think: Lee Iacocca slams Daimler

Tell us what you really think: Lee Iacocca slams Daimler originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2007 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cerberuschryslerchrysler corpChryslerCorplee iacoccaLeeIacoccatom lasordaTomLasordawolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardFri, 18 May 2007 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[LaSorda speaks: We're not breaking up the band!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/lasorda-speaks-were-not-breaking-up-the-band/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/lasorda-speaks-were-not-breaking-up-the-band/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/lasorda-speaks-were-not-breaking-up-the-band/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The newly minted Chrysler Corp. held its first press conference today and carryover CEO Tom LaSorda made it clear that all of Chrysler's brands will be kept together after the sale to Cerberus Capital Management goes through. Many have been wondering if Cerberus would pull an Edward Lewis à la Pretty Woman and break up the automaker, selling off its pieces for profit. LaSorda says that won't happen, and in addition his company and Daimler AG will continue to work together in areas such as hybrid technology and purchasing. One would also hope that work done to bring a small B-class car to Chrysler's product portfolio from Chinese automaker Chery is also intact.

LaSorda also said that the purchase will not be followed by more job cuts than were already planned. One job cut we speculate might be considered is LaSorda's own position as CEO of Chrysler Corp. We suspect he'll be given a year or two to improve Chrysler's standing, but ex-Chrysler wünderboy Wolfgang Bernhard is waiting unemployed in the wings. It's likely Bernhard couldn't be named CEO of Chrysler Corp. anyway until his noncompete clause with VW/Audi runs its course. Until that time, you can bet LaSorda will be working to prove his worth to the new suits in town from Cerberus.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

LaSorda speaks: We're not breaking up the band! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2007 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cerberuschryslerchrysler corp.ChryslerCorp.expire-images:2008-5-14saletom lasordaTomLasordawolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardTue, 15 May 2007 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Wolfgang Bernhard will not be a part of the Chrysler deal. Yet!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/14/wolfgang-bernhard-will-not-be-a-part-of-the-chrysler-deal-yet/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/14/wolfgang-bernhard-will-not-be-a-part-of-the-chrysler-deal-yet/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/14/wolfgang-bernhard-will-not-be-a-part-of-the-chrysler-deal-yet/#commentsFiled under: ,

Now that the new Chrysler Corp. has been created by Daimler AG selling a majority stake in the company to Cerberus Capital Management, the next question is who is in charge? In recent weeks, former Chrysler group chief operating officer Wolfgang Bernhard has been quite conspicuous in the halls of Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters. However, the announcement made clear that the current Chrysler management team led by Tom LaSorda would stay in place, at least for now.

Bernhard will not be part of Chrysler management but will stay with Cerberus. Almost certainly when Bernhard left Volkswagen early this year, his separation agreement included a no-compete clause probably for two years which prohibits him from taking a direct role at Chrysler. What we will probably see is Bernhard acting as a liaison between the equity firm and the carmaker. That probably means LaSorda has about eighteen months to turn things around before Wolfgang steps back in.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Wolfgang Bernhard will not be a part of the Chrysler deal. Yet! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2007 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cerberuswolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardMon, 14 May 2007 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[You can go home again: Bernhard sits down with Chrysler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/you-can-go-home-again-bernhard-sits-down-with-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/you-can-go-home-again-bernhard-sits-down-with-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/you-can-go-home-again-bernhard-sits-down-with-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: ,



The last time that Chrysler was on the brink around the turn of the century, Dieter Zetsche and Wolfgang Bernhard came over from Germany to try and right the ship and seemed to have succeeded at least for a time. Then Bernhard was recalled to the mother ship in Stuttgart where he ruffled former CEO Jurgen Schrempp's feathers a bit too much. He subsequently went to Volkswagen where he appeared to be trying to dismantle Ferdinand Piech's legacy and was dismissed again.

He is now back at the site of his greatest success in Auburn Hills, this time leading the bid by Cerberus Capital Management to buy Chrysler from Daimler. Bernhard has visited Chrysler headquarters at least twice in the past week and his involvement seems to be giving Cerberus' bid some extra credibility. If the private equity fund does end up winning, it seems likely that Bernhard might end up back at the helm of Chrysler. If that does happen, the big question is... will he green light the Tomahawk?

[Source: Detroit News]

You can go home again: Bernhard sits down with Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 May 2007 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cerberuschrysler saleChryslerSaletomahawkwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardFri, 04 May 2007 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Will consult for food: Wolfgang Bernhard hired by potential Chrysler Group bidder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/15/will-consult-for-food-wolfgang-bernhard-hired-by-potential-chry/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/15/will-consult-for-food-wolfgang-bernhard-hired-by-potential-chry/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/15/will-consult-for-food-wolfgang-bernhard-hired-by-potential-chry/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Rumors have been flying around about which companies and/or equity groups are interested in purchasing the Chrysler Group. Buyout firm Cerberus has shown it is definitely in the running by hiring former Chrysler COO Wolfgang Bernhard as a consultant. Bernhard could be an asset to Cerberus since he knows Chrysler's strengths and weaknesses and was one of the architects of Chrysler's last restructuring and short-lived resurgence in the new milennium.

Bernhard has had a string of bad luck lately with jobs, beginning with his ousting from DCX in 2004. He quickly moved over to VW where he was recently let go after a management shuffle. Bernhard never seems to be out of work for long, however, and now he gets the chance to advise one of the front runners on how best to approach a potential Chrysler purchase. If Cerberus does, in fact, win the right to own Chrysler, we wouldn't be surprised to see Bernhard as the new Chrysler CEO.

[Source: Automotive News]

Will consult for food: Wolfgang Bernhard hired by potential Chrysler Group bidder originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Mar 2007 08:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bernhardchryslerdcxvwwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardThu, 15 Mar 2007 08:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Wolfgang Berhnard finds work as consultant on Chrysler sale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/05/wolfgang-berhnard-finds-work-as-consultant-on-chrysler-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/05/wolfgang-berhnard-finds-work-as-consultant-on-chrysler-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/05/wolfgang-berhnard-finds-work-as-consultant-on-chrysler-sale/#commentsFiled under: ,



Former Chrysler Group Chief Operating Officer Wolfgang Bernhard (shown above in 2002 with DaimlerChrysler CEO Dieter Zetsche) is apparently taking advantage of his inner circle knowledge of the Auburn Hills-based automaker. In order to keep busy since leaving his post as the head of Volkswagen, Bernhard is reportedly acting as an adviser to one or more of the groups that are contemplating acquiring Chrysler from Daimler. When talk of Magna International making a bid first surfaced a couple of weeks ago, Bernhard's name was attached as a potential leader of the automaker post sale. Whoever ends up in control may well hire Bernhard, although that depends on what the details of his severance package from VW are. He did have a non-compete agreement, but since he was effectively fired that may no longer be in effect.

[Source: Just-Auto - sub. req'd]

Wolfgang Berhnard finds work as consultant on Chrysler sale originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrysler purchaseChryslerPurchasewolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardMon, 05 Mar 2007 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Could Magna buy Chrysler and put Bernhard at the helm?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/could-magna-buy-chrysler-and-put-bernhard-at-the-helm/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/could-magna-buy-chrysler-and-put-bernhard-at-the-helm/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/could-magna-buy-chrysler-and-put-bernhard-at-the-helm/#commentsFiled under:


Toronto, Ontario based Magna International is the third largest automotive supplier in the world with 2005 sales of $22.8 billion. They have had a long relationship with DaimlerChrylser both in North America and Europe including running an assembly plant in Graz, Austria that builds various Chrysler models for the European market. Amid the flurry of speculation in recent days about the fate of the Chrysler Group comes a new one from Just-Auto: Magna buys Chrysler and hooks up Wolfgang Bernhard to run the show in Auburn Hills.

Although Magna is a big enough company that they may well be able to pull off such a large transaction, other suppliers are worried about the effects on them. If a company like Magna owned the carmaker would they lock out other competing suppliers like Lear, Johnson Controls, Collins and Aikman and others? Certainly, when GM owned what is now Delphi, it was a lot harder for outside suppliers to bid on contracts that Delphi also produced like brake and steering systems. The other big part of this speculation has Wolfgang Bernhard, now free of his VW obligations stepping in to run the show. This one evolves out of a previous rumor that Bernhard was going to be hired to succeed Magna founder Frank Stronach who may be ready to retire.

[Source: Just-Auto - subscription required]

Could Magna buy Chrysler and put Bernhard at the helm? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Feb 2007 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>magna internationalMagnaInternationalwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardThu, 22 Feb 2007 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[WSJ reports Wolfgang Bernhard leaving VW]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/29/wsj-reports-wolfgang-bernhard-leaving-vw/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/29/wsj-reports-wolfgang-bernhard-leaving-vw/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/29/wsj-reports-wolfgang-bernhard-leaving-vw/#commentsFiled under: ,



The Wall Street Journal is reporting today that Volkwagen brand chief Wolfgang Bernhard will be leaving his post next month after the company's board votes to approve a new management shakeup. Supposedly the management reorginization involves offering Bernhard a new position in which he would oversee production across all brands in the VW/Audi group. Bernhard, however, has been reported as saying he would leave the company if his job changed.

Speculation that Bernhard would pack up and leave has been rampant ever since the man who hired him, ex-CEO Bernd Pischetsrieder, was replaced by his counterpart at Audi, Martin Winterkorn. If Bernhard does choose to leave VW, it's not entirely certain he could accept a position at another automaker due to a two-year non-compete clause built into his contract. This could potentially block Bernhard from returning to a post at his previous employer, DaimlerChrysler. Rumor has it that DaimlerChrysler CEO Dieter Zetsche would love to his bring his former prodigy back to the company, perhaps to replace current Chrysler Group CEO as the captain of the company's U.S. domestic division.

[Source: Automotive News]

WSJ reports Wolfgang Bernhard leaving VW originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Dec 2006 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audimartin winterkornMartinWinterkornvwwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardFri, 29 Dec 2006 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Wolfgang Berhnard will be a no-show in Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/wolfgang-berhnard-will-be-a-no-show-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/wolfgang-berhnard-will-be-a-no-show-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/08/wolfgang-berhnard-will-be-a-no-show-in-detroit/#commentsFiled under: ,



A couple days ago we told you about speculation that VW brand chief Wolfgang Bernhard might leave VeeDub and return to his old haunting ground at DaimlerChrysler. While it's just a rumor, we have another rumor that just adds fuel to the burning question of whether or not Wolfgang will stay or go. Reuters is reporting that Bernhard will not be attending the Detroit Auto Show in January. Let's phrase it another way, the head of a major automotive brand will not be attending the largest international auto show in the world of the year. Nobody skips NAIAS, even if they want to. We don't know why Bernhard will be a no show, but here's the speculation comes in. Is he so deep in talks with VW Group management about cancelling his contract and leaving the company that he just doesn't care about attending the show on his future ex-brand's behalf? Will his absence be a statement of defiance aimed at the VW Group's new chief, Martin Winterkorn? Will he be spotted touring the German countryside on the back of the Tomahawk, remembering fondly the times when he and Dieter Zetsche would go slam down some pints with the union boys at DCX? Who knows, but we'll miss the theatrics Bernhard has been known for in the past. Either way, he can read about everything that happens in Detroit right here on Autoblog.

[Source: Reuters via Automotive News]

Wolfgang Berhnard will be a no-show in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Dec 2006 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007detroit auto showDetroitAutoShownaiasvolkswagenvwwolfgang bernhardWolfgangBernhardFri, 08 Dec 2006 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Will the prodigal Bernhard return to Chrysler?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/06/will-the-prodigal-bernhard-return-to-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/06/will-the-prodigal-bernhard-return-to-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/06/will-the-prodigal-bernhard-return-to-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It's no secret that Wolfgang Bernhard, the VW brand's head honcho, is not happy with the fact that current VW Group Chairman Bernd Pischetsrider is resigning at the end of the year. Pischetsrieder was one of the major players involved in bringing Bernhard over from DaimlerChrysler and tasking the dapper executive with VeeDub's turnaround. Adding salt to the wound is who was chosen to replace Pischetsrieder as the Chairman of the VW Group - Martin Winterkorn, Bernhard's counterpart at Audi who will on January 1st of 2007 become his boss.

We've heard rumblings that Bernhard wants out of VW over all this, and Automotive News is reporting that internal discussions have taken place concerning the cancellation of Bernhard's contract. This would allow Bernhard to immediately seek employment from other automakers, which at the moment is blocked by a non-compete clause that lasts for two years after he leaves the company. What's more, Bernhard has already met with former colleague Dieter Zetsche, who could likely find a place for Bernhard at DaimlerChrysler. AN hypothesizes the most vulnerable exec at DCX right now is Tom LaSordo who, despite being a nice enough guy, hasn't been able to get The Chrysler Group back on track after suffering heavy losses this year. Would we like to see Bernhard back at DaimlerChrysler? Damn skippy - this is the guy who once rode into the Detroit Auto Show on the back of a Viper motor. He's got our vote.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. required]

Will the prodigal Bernhard return to Chrysler? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Dec 2006 16:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PischetsriederVW GroupVwGroupWolfgang BernhardWolfgangBernhardWed, 06 Dec 2006 16:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Wolfgang Bernhard could leave VW if commitment doesn't come by Friday]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/14/wolfgang-bernhard-could-leave-vw-if-commitment-doesnt-come-by-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/14/wolfgang-bernhard-could-leave-vw-if-commitment-doesnt-come-by-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/14/wolfgang-bernhard-could-leave-vw-if-commitment-doesnt-come-by-f/#commentsFiled under: ,



Looks like Wolfgang Bernhard may have taken the appointment of Martin Winterkorn as future Volkswagen AG CEO personally. Reports are swirling that Bernhard is likely to step down soon. Newspapers are reporting today that VW has asked for a commitment from Bernhard by Friday. German business newspaper Handelsblatt said Bernhard had threatened as early as May to resign if Winterkorn became CEO.

This would be a pretty big loss for Volkswagen, as Bernhard is widely regarded as a savior for VW because of his efforts to cut costs in Germany. Some put Bernhard's contribution to Volkswagen's bottom line as high as $9 billion (7 billion euros) by 2008. That has come mainly as a result of restructured benefits and extended working hours for VW's 100,000 workers at its plants in western Germany.

This comes on the heels of last week's shakeup that saw the group's chief executive Bernd Pischetsrieder stepping down after a power struggle with VW chairman Ferdinand Piech. That resulted in the nomination of Audi CEO Martin Winterkorn as the new head of VW. Bernd has since been reassigned to the trucking arm of VAG.

[Sources: Reuters and Automotive News, sub req]

Wolfgang Bernhard could leave VW if commitment doesn't come by Friday originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bernd PischetsriederBerndPischetsriederFerdinand PiechFerdinandPiechMartin WinterkornMartinWinterkornWolfgang BernhardWolfgangBernhardTue, 14 Nov 2006 18:34:00 EST<![CDATA[VW to replace all automatics with DSG?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/14/vw-to-replace-all-automatics-with-dsg/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/14/vw-to-replace-all-automatics-with-dsg/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/14/vw-to-replace-all-automatics-with-dsg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkwagen's Direct Shift Gearbox/S-Tronic twin clutch gearbox has been fairly canonized by all who have mashed its paddles. And now, the automaker's product chief Wolfgang Bernhard is suggesting that the gearbox will replace all of its conventional automatics in much of the VW kingdom shortly, including transverse-mount Audis, Skodas, Seats, and VWs. Apparently, VW is having a issues dealing with longitudinal applications at the moment.

Bernhard also allowed that the VW has no plans to license the technology, preferring to keep the transmission for itself.

[Source: The Car Connection]

VW to replace all automatics with DSG? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jun 2006 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>direct shift gearboxDirectShiftGearboxDSGdual clutchdual shiftDualClutchDualShiftgearboxS-TronicSeatsemi-automaticskodatransmissionWolfgang BernhardWolfgangBernhardWed, 14 Jun 2006 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Volkswagen to pull forward sixth-generation Golf?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/03/volkswagen-to-shorten-fifth-generation-golf-lifecycle/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/03/volkswagen-to-shorten-fifth-generation-golf-lifecycle/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/03/volkswagen-to-shorten-fifth-generation-golf-lifecycle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

America's roads are finally getting the long overdue fifth-generation Volkswagen Golf, and already there's talk of its demise. The new-look hatchback began arriving Stateside in GTI trim in February, but it has been navigating European roads since 2003. And now there's talk that a replacement will hit showrooms beginning in the fall of 2008. Of course, that version is likely to take a while to filter over to U.S. shores, but pulling forward the sixth-generation Golf by two years has been deemed necessary for profitability's sake.

According to AutoWeek's article, a source within the company has pegged the current iteration as "horrendously expensive to produce," and currency fluctuations are also putting a crimp in per-unit profits. That's easy to believe  if Wolfgang Bernhard's statement about its built times is accurate: "For the production of the Golf in Wolfsburg we require two-and-a-half times the number of hours required by the best of the competition." The aim with the sixth will be to improve streamline production costs and times, but VW will need to be careful about decontenting and quality-control if it intends to stay competitive.

Read more about the future design and hardware direction of the next Golf by clicking through to the article.

[Sources: AutoWeek; Volkswagen]

Volkswagen to pull forward sixth-generation Golf? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Apr 2006 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GolfGTIVolkswagenVWWolfgang BernhardWolfgangBernhardMon, 03 Apr 2006 11:03:00 EST