Jörg Bartels to become Porsche development chief

Porsche is getting a new development chief: Jörg Bartels is set to succeed Michael Steiner in May 2027. Bartels is moving from Mercedes, where he is currently responsible for the worldwide development of all drive systems. The 52-year-old only took on the Mercedes role in May 2026.

Change in the development division

Michael Steiner will end his work at Porsche in May 2027. The 62-year-old has headed the executive board division based at the Weissach development center since 2016 and worked for the sports car maker for almost 25 years in total. Since 2025, Steiner has also held the role of deputy chairman of the executive board.

Steiner’s time as development chief included important model and technology steps for Porsche. These include the 991 and 992 generations of the 911, the introduction of the Taycan as the first fully electric Porsche, and the start of hybrid drive in the Porsche 911.

Bartels brings international development experience

Bartels has worked in vehicle development for more than two decades. His experience ranges from individual components and complex vehicle systems to overall responsibility for vehicle platforms and product lines. He also led development organizations in Europe and Asia. As president and CEO of Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd., he worked in China for several years. At Porsche, Bartels is expected to drive the realignment of the research and development division.