Surprising Move in the Automotive World: Mercedes Executive Joins Dacia
Automotive journalist covering car reviews, industry news, and automotive technology

In a surprising shake-up within the automotive industry, Mercedes-Benz executive Katrin Adt is set to take the helm at Dacia, succeeding Denis Le Vot as CEO. This strategic move marks a significant shift for the Romanian car manufacturer, known for its cost-effective models.
Denis Le Vot, who has been leading Dacia since 2021, is stepping down from his role. While no official reason for his departure has been provided, Le Vot mentioned on LinkedIn that he plans to focus on personal projects. Known for his transformative impact, Le Vot's tenure at Dacia was marked by the introduction of the Bigster model and a visual revamp of the brand. His leadership also saw the Jogger become a market success, cementing Dacia's position in affordable family cars. His departure leaves a significant legacy at the company.
Katrin Adt brings a wealth of experience from Mercedes-Benz, having held prominent positions such as CEO of Mercedes-Benz Own Retail Europe and CEO of the Smart brand. Her appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Dacia, leveraging her background in luxury automotive management to enhance Dacia's operations. Adt's move is viewed as a strategic alignment with Renault's broader ambitions, as she joins Dacia at a pivotal time when the company is expanding its product line.
Under Adt's leadership, Dacia is poised to introduce new models, including larger vehicles to complement the Bigster, and a successor to the Spring, an affordable electric car missing from the Finnish market. This expansion is part of Dacia's strategy to maintain its competitive edge in the European market, where it has already made significant inroads with models like the Sandero and Duster. These developments are crucial as Dacia seeks to bolster its market share amid evolving automotive trends.
Adt's appointment comes at a time when Dacia is strategically positioned to capitalize on its recent successes. The brand has consistently ranked among Europe's top-selling vehicles, and with Adt's expertise, Dacia aims to further solidify its presence in both the compact and SUV markets. This leadership change reflects a forward-thinking approach, aligning with Renault's vision for innovation and growth in the automotive sector.
About Robert Davis
Automotive journalist covering car reviews, industry news, and automotive technology