Volkswagen Group of America’s North American Engineering and Planning Center in Chattanooga today announced that Dr. Burkhard Huhnke has been named vice president of product innovations effective immediately.
In this role he will support the fostering of innovation in the market, build connections with national research and development organizations and be a liaison with universities, according to VW.
“Dr. Burkhard Huhnke’s 18 years of experience in research and development have prepared him for his expanded role here at the North American Engineering and Planning Center,” said Dr. Matthias Erb, the company’s executive vice president of engineering and planning, in a statement. “Dr. Huhnke’s expertise will help direct our innovation efforts in the North American region, for example in terms of lightweight materials and connectivity.”
Previously, Huhnke served as head of product engineering at the Volkswagen Chattanooga plant.
The center was created in connection with the $900 million Chattanooga plant expansion the German automaker announced in 2014.