Staff Writer
Chennai: Daimler Truck Innovation Center India (DTICI), one of the largest development hubs of Daimler Truck AG outside Germany, has appointed Radhakrishnan Kodakkal as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer with effect from March 9, 2026, marking a significant leadership transition at the Bengaluru-based technology and engineering centre.
Kodakkal succeeds Raghavendra Vaidya, who has been elevated to the role of Global Chief Information Officer at Daimler Truck AG. The leadership change comes at a time when the company is expanding its engineering and digital capabilities worldwide.
In his new role, Kodakkal will oversee DTICI’s engineering and digital operations while closely collaborating with Daimler Truck’s global product engineering, technology and IT teams. His mandate includes strengthening India’s contribution in areas such as engineering design, software development, digital platforms and IT services. These domains have become increasingly critical as the automotive sector undergoes rapid technological transformation driven by electrification, connectivity and software-led innovation.
Kodakkal brings more than three decades of experience in technology, engineering and research and development across multinational corporations. Before joining DTICI, he worked with Whirlpool Corporation as Global Head of Integrated Technology and Vice President and Head of the Global Technology and Engineering Center. In that role, he was responsible for global technology strategy, R&D operations and cross-regional innovation programmes. His professional experience also includes leading large-scale digital transformation projects and developing connected and sustainable technology solutions.
Commenting on the appointment, Thomas Ulm, Chairman of DTICI, said Kodakkal’s extensive leadership experience and deep understanding of global technology ecosystems position him well to guide the centre through its next phase of growth.
Ulm noted that as DTICI continues to play an increasingly central role in Daimler Truck’s global engineering and IT network, the company is confident that Kodakkal’s leadership will further strengthen the centre’s position as a trusted innovation and delivery hub for the group.
He also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing CEO Raghavendra Vaidya, stating that under his leadership DTICI evolved into a critical component of Daimler Truck’s global operations. With Vaidya taking charge as Global CIO of Daimler Truck AG, both leaders are expected to continue working closely at the group level to strengthen global technology integration.
Speaking on his new role, Kodakkal said the automotive industry is currently experiencing a period of profound technological transformation. He noted that this moment presents a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of mobility.
Kodakkal added that he intends to build on DTICI’s existing strengths and collaborate with teams across global locations to develop technology solutions that are scalable, sustainable and aligned with emerging mobility needs.
The leadership transition also reflects Daimler Truck’s broader strategy to deepen its investment in India as a major base for engineering capability, digital innovation and IT services. Established in December 2021 and headquartered in Bengaluru, the Daimler Truck Innovation Center India has rapidly grown into a key engineering and technology hub supporting all Daimler Truck brands across global markets.
As the global commercial vehicle industry accelerates its shift toward electrified powertrains, connected systems and software-driven vehicle platforms, centres like DTICI are expected to play an increasingly vital role in shaping the company’s long-term product development and technology roadmap.
