A decade of diesel controversy: Olaf Lies observes a distinct cultural shift
In the past decade, the Volkswagen diesel scandal has left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. The events that unfolded raised questions about who knew what and when, and whether the scandal could have been stopped earlier.
Following the scandal, Volkswagen has undergone a significant transformation. The company has improved its structures and become more aware of its responsibility towards humans and the environment. This transformation is ongoing, with a focus on handling responsibility and trust more sensitively.
The diesel scandal has served as a catalyst for change not only within Volkswagen but also in Lower Saxony, the German state where the company is headquartered. The events have led to increased awareness of responsibility towards the environment at Volkswagen.
The cooperation between politics and Volkswagen remains close, but it is now more critical than before the diesel scandal. This is evident in the composition of the Volkswagen supervisory board, which includes politicians such as Stephan Weil, the Prime Minister of Lower Saxony, and Bernd Althusmann. Weil, who has been a member since before the Diesel scandal, has been instrumental in advocating for a culture change at VW after the crisis, emphasizing transparency and sustainable transformation.
Minister President Lies, another member of the VW Supervisory Board, observes a change in the relationship between politics and Volkswagen. He states that the impact of factors like the diesel scandal on change processes, especially in large systems like auto manufacturing, should not be underestimated.
The diesel scandal has accelerated Volkswagen's shift towards electric mobility more than it would have otherwise. This shift is seen as a continuous process, not just a one-time step, according to Lies. He also advocates for making electric cars more attractive for everyone.
However, the company still carries a burden from the affair. The events of the diesel scandal are largely concluded, but their impact continues to be felt. Minister President Lies made this observation to the German Press Agency.
In conclusion, the diesel scandal has had a burdening and transformative effect on Volkswagen. The company is now more aware of its responsibility towards the environment and its stakeholders. The cooperation between politics and Volkswagen has evolved, with a greater emphasis on transparency and critical engagement. As Volkswagen moves forward, it continues to navigate the complexities of the automotive industry, striving to learn from its past and shape a more sustainable future.
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