Alan Bateson, formerly the head of Volkswagen Ireland's commercial vehicles division, has taken over as the brand director for Volkswagen passenger cars in Ireland. Bateson is replacing Rodolfo Calixto, who has moved to Volkswagen Group China.
Sustainability goals
It's not the first time Bateson has been part of the passenger car side of things. He was Head of Aftersales for Volkswagen Group Ireland from 2009 until he took over the van side of things.
VW Ireland says that Bateson will be "responsible for leading the brand in Ireland as it transitions towards e-mobility and strives to meet its ambitious sustainability goals."
Bateson's appointment comes at a time of growing success for the Volkswagen brand in Ireland. VW-badged sales are up by 47 per cent this year, and the brand is catching up with the number-one selling car marque, Toyota. Meanwhile, VW is the biggest-selling electric brand in the country at the moment, with a 22 per cent EV market share, and the ID.4 into its second year as the best-selling EV model in Ireland.
Thrilled to take on new role
Bateson said: "I am thrilled to take on this new role with Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland. This is an incredibly exciting time to be working in the motor industry and Volkswagen is leads the way as we transition to e-mobility and full sustainability."
Bateson, of course, already has some EV success under his belt, as it was VW Commercial Vehicles that took the lead on introducing the award-winning ID. Buzz into Ireland. Bateson can also look back on having overseen significant growth and brand recognition during his tenure at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland.
Proven track record
Carla Wentzel, CEO of Volkswagen Group Ireland, said: "We are delighted to welcome Alan to his new role as Brand Director for Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland. Alan's experience and proven track record will be instrumental in driving the Volkswagen brand forward and ensuring we continue to provide our customers with the best possible experience."
Bateson, who officially takes on his new position on June 1st, added: "I am really excited to start working alongside the talented Volkswagen Passenger Cars team in Liffey Valley as well as our first-class dealer network. Together, we will strive to give our customers the best possible experience while working towards our goal of a more sustainable future for Volkswagen in Ireland."