AUTOLINE EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR - AUTOLINE THIS WEEK 1902

EV Channels Review

This episode of Autoline This Week focuses on the candidates for the 2014 Autoline Automotive Executive of the Year. The discussion highlights four key figures: Martin Winterkorn (Volkswagen), Akio Toyoda (Toyota), Ralph Spate (Jaguar Land Rover), and Sergio Marchionne (Fiat Chrysler Group). The panel praises Winterkorn for managing VW's diverse global portfolio but notes concerns about its high cost structure in Germany. Toyoda is commended for professional crisis management and reshaping Toyota's culture, while Spate is recognized for orchestrating JLR's impressive turnaround and profitability under Tata's ownership. Ultimately, Sergio Marchionne is named Executive of the Year for his decisive leadership in merging Fiat and Chrysler, exceeding ambitious targets, and achieving significant market share gains in the US, despite some program delays. The consensus is that Marchionne's strong personality was crucial for the merger's success, though the combined entity still faces challenges in achieving true global scale.