Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has announced a major leadership change. Torsten Schmidt, now CFO of Mercedes-Benz do Brasil, will take over as Managing Director and CEO of DICV in early 2026. He will succeed Satyakam Arya, who has been named the next President and CEO of Hino Motors in Japan.
Schmidt, 53, has been with Daimler for 28 years, joining the company in 1997. He has worked across multiple regions, including Germany, India, Japan, and Brazil building deep expertise in:
- Business transformation
- Commercial vehicle operations
- Finance and strategic planning
- Global value chain management
Before his current role in Brazil, Schmidt managed Finance and Controlling for Daimler Truck’s operations in Asia, based in Japan. He has also held leadership positions in production, sales, and central functions at Daimler Truck, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, and Daimler Truck Asia.
Praise From Daimler Leadership
Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, said he is confident in Schmidt’s appointment.
He pointed to Schmidt’s international experience, strategic thinking, and financial expertise as key strengths for leading DICV.
Puchert also thanked outgoing CEO Satyakam Arya for his leadership at DICV and his commitment to putting customers first.
What Schmidt Will Lead at DICV
When Schmidt takes on his new role, he will oversee:
- BharatBenz truck production and sales
- Mercedes-Benz coaches and bus chassis operations
- India’s Oragadam manufacturing facility, one of Daimler’s most advanced plants
- Export operations to over 60 global markets
He will report directly to Achim Puchert.
This leadership change is part of Daimler Truck’s long-term plan to strengthen its global commercial vehicle business. With his international experience and strong financial background, Schmidt is expected to help DICV keep growing in India and worldwide.
This transition marks a new phase for Daimler India Commercial Vehicles as the company plans to expand and strengthen the BharatBenz brand around the world.
