Volkswagen Calls On Tesla, Rivian Veteran To Tackle EV Software Challenges

Volkswagen AG VWAGY has enlisted the expertise of a former Tesla, Rivian, and Google executive, Sanjay Lal, in a bid to overcome software issues plaguing its electric vehicle (EV) sector.

According to a report by Electrek, the German automaker’s Cariad software unit has been underperforming for several years, causing setbacks in the launch of Porsche and Audi electric models. The problems were believed to be a contributing factor to the departure of former VW Group CEO Herbert Diess.

Lal, who has served in leadership roles at Tesla, Rivian, and Google, has been hired to head a new software design hub for future EVs under the Cariad division. Lal’s appointment comes after Volkswagen cut production at two German plants due to falling demand.

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Under the leadership of Oliver Blume, who took over VW’s CEO role in September, the company is making it a priority to revamp its EV software development and delivery. The move is seen as crucial for Volkswagen’s ability to compete with industry leaders like Tesla and Rivian.

Lal’s software design hub at Cariad will initially focus on developing software for an Audi and VW model. In the long run, the output of the unit is expected to be utilized across the Volkswagen Group of brands.

As software becomes an increasingly critical aspect of vehicle design, automakers like Volkswagen are investing heavily in this area to keep pace with consumer demand for advanced tech and features.

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