Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has appointed Thomas Müller as its new executive director of product engineering with immediate effect. He is taking responsibility for the technical development of all new Jaguar and Land Rovers, including both hardware and software. His expertise in technology, agile leadership and digital capabilities are expected to bring significant benefits to the efficient delivery of the next generation of modern luxury vehicles.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the automotive industry, Mr Müller has an extensive background in different roles in research and development (R&D), with a focus on chassis, ADAS and autonomous driving. He joins JLR from the Volkswagen Group, where he held a variety of engineering leadership positions at Audi. Most recently, he was executive vice president for R&D ADAS and Autonomous Driving at Volkswagen Group’s automotive software subsidiary, CARIAD.

Modern luxury philosophy
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Müller said: “I am thrilled to join the JLR team at a pivotal point in the company’s transformation. We have a truly exciting opportunity. By fully implementing agile principles, automating engineering processes and applying innovative product development methods, we will bring to life a new generation of electrified Jaguar and Land Rover models that embody our modern luxury philosophy.

“Jaguar and Land Rover are already renowned for their peerless design and dynamic capability. I am looking forward to further contributing to the success of these amazing brands and products as we pioneer a new era of electric power and digitalisation.”

JLR CEO Thierry Bolloré said: “Not only is Thomas a highly skilled, experienced engineering leader; he also brings a humble and approachable quality and we are delighted to welcome him to JLR. His vision and knowledge from more than two decades in the industry will make him a great support and mentor to our teams as we accelerate our journey of simplification and electrification.”

Mr Müller is the latest executive appointment at JLR, where he will play a key role in bringing to life the company’s Reimagine strategy: a sustainability-rich reimagination of modern luxury by design, unique customer experiences, and positive societal impact. The strategy is designed to help JLR achieve ‘net zero’ carbon emissions across supply chain, products and operations by 2039.

He succeeds Nick Rogers, who decided to leave JLR in December 2021.