Daimler Truck has announced a leadership transition for its commercial vehicle business in India, appointing Mr. Torsten Schmidt as the new Managing Director and CEO of Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), effective early 2026. Mr. Schmidt, currently Chief Financial Officer of Mercedes-Benz do Brasil, will succeed Mr. Satyakam Arya, who has been nominated as the designated President and CEO of Hino Motors in Japan.
Mr. Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, said, “Torsten is an experienced and respected leader whose global and intercultural expertise are matched by a proven ability to deliver results. His strong leadership qualities, strategic vision, financial proficiency, and deep understanding of the entire value chain make him the perfect fit to drive our business forward.”
He also extended his gratitude to Mr. Arya for his “outstanding leadership and lasting contribution to DICV’s success,” adding that Arya had played a key role in building Daimler’s strong footprint in India’s commercial vehicle landscape.
Mr. Schmidt, 53, brings nearly three decades of global experience to his new role. Since joining Daimler in 1997 after completing his studies in Industrial Engineering and Management in Germany and the UK, he has held senior leadership roles across Germany, India, Japan, and Brazil. His background spans production, sales, and finance, with extensive experience in business transformation across Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Before his current role in Brazil, he headed Finance and Controlling for Daimler Truck’s business in Asia, based in Japan.
In his upcoming position, Mr/ Schmidt will report to Mr. Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks. His appointment marks a new phase of leadership for DICV, as the company continues to strengthen its BharatBenz brand and expand its role in Daimler Truck’s global strategy.