Daimler India Gets New Leadership: Torsten Schmidt to Take Charge as CEO in 2026

Key Highlights

• Torsten Schmidt to take charge as DICV CEO in 2026.

• Currently CFO at Mercedes-Benz do Brasil.

• Brings global experience across Germany, India, Japan, and Brazil.

• Satyakam Arya appointed President & CEO of Hino Motors.

• DICV exports to 60+ global markets.

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has announced a major leadership change. Torsten Schmidt will become the new Managing Director and CEO of the company in early 2026. At the same time, Satyakam Arya, the current CEO, has been appointed as the designated President and CEO of Hino Motors in Japan.

This transition reflects Daimler Truck AG’s aim to strengthen its global leadership team while supporting long-term growth in India and international markets.

Who Is Torsten Schmidt?

Torsten Schmidt is currently the Chief Financial Officer at Mercedes-Benz do Brasil. He joined Daimler in 1997 after completing a degree in Industrial Engineering and Management.

Over the years, he has worked in several key roles across Germany, India, Japan, and Brazil. His experience spans production, sales, finance, and central operations for Daimler Truck, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, and Daimler Truck Asia.

Strong Global Expertise

Schmidt most recently led Finance and Controlling for Daimler Truck’s Asia operations. In his new role as CEO of DICV, he will report directly to Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

Leadership Appreciation and Transition

Achim Puchert praised Schmidt’s deep understanding of global operations and the entire value chain. He said Schmidt is well-positioned to guide DICV as it enters its next phase of growth in India.

He also appreciated Satyakam Arya’s strong contributions, especially his successful efforts in building DICV’s presence in the Indian commercial vehicle market.

About DICV

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles is a 100% subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG.
The company manufactures and sells:

• BharatBenz trucks and buses

• Mercedes-Benz coaches and bus chassis

Its Oragadam plant near Chennai produces vehicles and components for multiple Daimler Truck global brands, including FUSO, Mercedes-Benz, and Freightliner. DICV also exports to more than 60 international markets across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Statements from Company Leaders

Achim Puchert, CEO, Mercedes-Benz Trucks: “Torsten Schmidt brings experience across global operations and an understanding of the full value chain. He is well equipped to guide DICV’s next phase and continue strengthening its market leadership in India.”

On Arya’s new role, he added: “We acknowledge Satyakam Arya’s valuable contribution to DICV. His efforts in establishing a strong market presence have built a solid foundation for future growth.”

Looking Ahead

This leadership change highlights Daimler Truck AG’s focus on global talent development and operational excellence. With Torsten Schmidt set to take charge, DICV is expected to expand its presence in India and continue delivering world-class commercial vehicles for global markets.

Also Read: India Leads Global Electric 3-Wheeler Market With 57% Share in 2024, Says COP30 Report

CMV360 Says

The appointment of Torsten Schmidt as the next CEO of Daimler India Commercial Vehicles marks a major strategic step for the company. His strong global experience and deep understanding of finance, production, and operations position him well to guide DICV’s next phase of growth. With Satyakam Arya moving to lead Hino Motors in Japan, Daimler strengthens its global leadership pipeline while ensuring continued focus on the Indian commercial vehicle market.