Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/740508
exist," added Clarke, pointing to Volkswagen's new RIO telemat- ics and connectivity architecture as an example, a solution similar to Navistar's OnCommand Connection solution in North America. Renschler pegged 2021 as a realistic target date for Volkswagen to deliver an engine solution developed spe- cifically for the needs of Navistar's customers in the North American market, but stressed the compa- nies would share technologies to strengthen both brands as opposed to Volkswagen simply supplying a powertrain solution to Navistar customers. "As a group, we have potential because we can use components from each other and go into [emerging] markets," said Renschler. "No one regional player alone can do that. We have a mission to bring transport to the next level and will move from being a hardware manufacturer to focus on transport efficiency. New drivetrain technology is one thing, but to enable our customers to be more profitable and more efficient, that is our goal." Renschler is no stranger to the North American truck market, having served as head of Daimler Trucks un- til two years ago, but noted a number of changes in the industry during that time, including the rapid adoption of automated manual transmissions, air disc brakes and now the push toward autonomous technology. • 6 www.bigrigowner.com N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 6 Cover Story