Volkswagen Group has confirmed that Andreas Mindt will become its new head of group design on 1 March 2026, marking a planned generational shift at the top of its creative leadership.
The move formalises a transition that had been anticipated earlier in the year and follows Andreas successful tenure guiding the design direction of the Volkswagen brand. He takes over from Michael Mauer, who leaves the company on amicable terms after shaping a unified design philosophy across the Group.
Andreas brings close to 30 years of experience within the Volkswagen Group, having joined in 1996 after graduating from Pforzheim University School of Design. His career spans key design contributions to models such as the first‑generation Tiguan, Golf 7 and the recent ID.2all concept. Beyond Volkswagen, he has held senior roles at Audi and Bentley, helping to define the Bentley Batur design language and steering the evolution of Audi’s exterior design strategy.
Speaking on the appointment, CEO Oliver Blume praised both the outgoing and incoming design leads. He highlighted Michael Mauer’s role in strengthening the DNA of individual brands while establishing a consistent design identity across the Group.
Oliver Blume also credited Mindt with helping restore Volkswagen’s unmistakable visual character in recent years. Andreas new remit spans a diverse collection of marques including Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Porsche, Skoda, Seat and Lamborghini, with a clear focus on both heritage and differentiation.
Mauer’s departure follows his earlier handover of Porsche design leadership, marking a smoother transition at Group level compared to recent changes at the sports car brand. His exit is positioned as part of Volkswagen’s long‑term succession planning.
As the Group navigates accelerating electrification across its portfolio, Andreas promotion underscores Volkswagen’s commitment to continuity while preparing for heightened global competition. His track record suggests a continued blend of innovation and brand‑driven identity for the Group’s next generation of vehicles.
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Sarah Redshaw
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
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