VW's Audi picks Volvo manager as new R&D chief

BERLIN: Volkswagen's luxury division Audi has appointed a Volvo research and development (R&D) expert as new head of technical development, filling a key management position as the brand grapples with its emissions scandal.

Peter Mertens, previously senior vice president for R&D at Volvo Car Corporation, will take up his role at Audi as soon as possible, a spokesman for Audi said on Thursday.

Mertens will replace former R&D chief Stefan Knirsch who left the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer in September following reports that he knew about the use of cheat software in 3.0 litre diesel engines and gave false testimony under oath.