McLaren says its new CTO will spearhead its new technology and innovation strategy
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by Sebastien Bell
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Charles Saunderson will return to McLaren Automotive as part of a recent hiring spree from the automaker. Once the English automaker’s software development leader, he will now take over the role of chief technical officer after a stint in the U.S. with Rivian.
According to the automaker, before returning to McLaren, Saunderson was Rivian’s platform chief engineer. Per LinkedIn, Saunderson started with Rivian in 2018 as VP of vehicle integration and development, before taking the chief engineering job in 2019.
Like other automakers, McLaren is increasingly interested in electrification, having recently unveiled the plug-in hybrid Artura. Hiring someone who was intimately involved in the creation of Rivian’s R1 platform is, therefore, a coup for the automaker.
Read: McLaren Names Ex-Ferrari Tech Chief Michael Leiters As CEO
Indeed, it said earlier this week that Saunderson will now “spearhead McLaren Automotive‘s new technology roadmap and product innovation strategy.” What that means specifically remains to be seen, but things are looking up for it.
In addition to the Saunderson appointment, McLaren also announced its new chief procurement officer—Jorg Laser, who has experience at GM, MAN Trucks, Autoliv, and more—and its new vehicle line executive director, Emmanuele Raveglia. The latter formerly worked at Ferrari, where he was the vehicle line director for vehicles like the F8 Tributo, the 488 Pista, and the Purosangue. He joins Michael Leiters, the company’s CEO since April 2022, who formerly worked as Ferrari’s head of technology.
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“We are delighted to have secured the services of three such capable and experienced industry professionals,” said Leiters. They “will be invaluable in the successful delivery of our Future of Performance strategy. Their varied backgrounds will also enhance our culture of international diversity and innovative fresh thinking.”
Just days after announcing those appointments, it was reported that McLaren had secured a £70 million ($85 million USD at current exchange rates) capital investment from its shareholders. The automaker is said to be looking for as much as £500 million ($607 million USD) to help fund plans to electrify its lineup.
