What’s Happening
Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG announced the appointments of Andrew Cornelia and Christopher Trainor, both slated to assume top-tier executive positions at Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, LLC. Cornelia and Trainor are set to take over their respective roles as President and CEO, and CFO, respectively, starting June 2023.
Why It Matters
In these key positions, Cornelia and Trainor will spearhead the initiation and operations of Mercedes-Benz’s charging network in the U.S. and Canada. The North American arm of Mercedes-Benz HPC plans to set up roughly 400 charging stations, offering over 2,500 high-power chargers to customers across all EV brands throughout North America by 2030. In addition, the newly appointed executives will be accountable for assembling, guiding, and empowering a fresh team of employees aligned with the company’s North American aspirations.
Key Points
Franz Reiner, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG, expressed enthusiasm over the upcoming transition, noting the extensive experience and innovative vision both Cornelia and Trainor bring to the project. He emphasized the duo’s strong commitment to revolutionizing North American charging infrastructure, with the signature Mercedes-Benz focus on quality and customer experience.
Cornelia, a veteran with over a decade of experience in the electric mobility and charging field, has significantly contributed to shaping EV charging infrastructure both in the U.S. and globally. His former roles include Strategic Finance leadership at Tesla for the global charging network, and executive leadership at Volta Charging in Corporate Strategy and Development.
Trainor, on the other hand, brings over three decades of corporate finance experience to the table. His illustrious career includes significant leadership roles at Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA since 2002, following a stint with the Chrysler group starting 1994.
Bottom Line
Mercedes-Benz HPC North America will be instrumental in developing and operating the high-power charging network across North America. This significant move aligns with the next phase of Mercedes-Benz’s electrification strategy – expanding the overall North American EV charging map to spur EV adoption to greater heights. Being a part of the Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG family of companies, this development promises to enhance the financial and mobility services division of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
