eLCV conversion specialist Bedeo has appointed Dr Herbert Demel to its advisory board as a strategic advisor, effective immediately.

Dr Herbert Demel joins Bedeo’s advisory board as a strategic advisor, effective immediately

Dr Demel has served in senior executive roles at a number of prominent companies, including as CEO of Audi AG, Magna Steyr, Fiat Auto, Italy, and plant manufacturer M+W Group GmbH, specialising in the building of turn-key plants of chip production facilities.

He also served as president of Volkswagen do Brasil, the largest non-German operation of Volkswagen worldwide, and at Robert Bosch GmbH.

Dr Demel currently holds a number of non-executive Supervisory Board roles. Born and raised in Austria, he gained his undergraduate degree and doctorate from TU Vienna and holds an honorary professorship at the Institute of Management Science there.

Bedeo said his appointment would bring a wealth of knowledge to support the company in its mission to electrify transportation.

Founder and CEO Osman Boyner commented: “It is essential that the world reduces its reliance on fossil fuels, and Dr Demel’s insight, network and experience will be critical as we deliver fast and effective electrification solutions to OEMs and fleet owners. We are delighted to welcome Dr Demel and look forward to collaborating on our shared goals.”

Dr Herbert Demel added: “As the industry accelerates its transition to sustainable transport, I was impressed to learn about Bedeo’s path. The automotive industry and fleet owners face many challenges in their ability to operate businesses that are both sustainable and profitable. Bedeo and Protean have been pioneers in solving these challenges with their market insight and advanced technology solutions. I am very much looking forward to working with Bedeo and continuing my relationship with Protean Electric as both companies continue to grow.”

It’s the latest development for Bedeo, which late last year acquired in-wheel motor (IWM) technology specialist Protean Electric. The deal with Protean, previously owned by National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), will accelerate Bedeo’s work and expand its geographical reach from the UK and Europe to the United States and Asia.

Other recent developments at Bedeo have seen it increase its footprint in Ocado’s fleet to 32 electric vans.