On June 1, 2025, Dr. Christian Amsel assumed the position of CTO (Chief Technology Officer) at ZKW. With this appointment, a proven expert with extensive experience in the vehicle and lighting industries returns to his original field of activity.
After studying electrical engineering at RWTH Aachen University and subsequently working as a research assistant at the Institute of Automotive Engineering, Christian joined Hella’s Lighting Electronics division in 2003. There he played a key role in the development of innovative lighting systems, including concepts for active night vision systems, adaptive cruise control using solid-state lidar, and the next generation of AFS lighting systems with the new Vario Xenon modules and intelligent stepper motors. With his team, he introduced the first Xenon based ADB system for VW Touareg.
As one of the pioneers in the field of camera-based light control, he played a key role in the series development of multifunction cameras. With the acquisition of Hella Aglaia in 2006, these systems were successfully brought into series production at automakers worldwide in 2009 and 2010. Since 2009, he has been EVP of the Driver Assistance division at Hella, focusing on vehicle sensors and radar-based systems for autonomous driving.
In the following years, he helped shape the transition to electromobility and played a key role in positioning Hella as the market leader in 48-volt start-stop components and battery management systems. As a member of the Electronics Management Board, he was involved in joint ventures in Korea and Germany, among other projects.
After leaving Hella, Christian took on management positions as CTO at Inalfa Roof Systems in the Netherlands and at Kongsberg Automotive in Switzerland. At both companies, he played a key role in the strategic realignment and development of future-oriented technologies.
By joining ZKW, he is now returning to the lighting industry. We at DVN wish him grand success in his new position, and we look forward to interviewing him once he’s got his bearings.
