German automobile major Audi braces for the exit of one of its prominent staff members heading engine development amid mounting competition from other automakers and its drive for electric cars.
Stefan Knirsch, who was at the helm of powertrain development at Audi, the luxury arm of Volkswagen since 2013, will quit the firm, said a report by Reuters citing Auto Motor and Sport magazine.
However, it is yet to be learnt when Knirsch is bidding farewell to the firm or set to begin a new innings with another firm.
The exit is set to take place at a point of time when the carmaker is giving fillip to its electric vehicle product lineup and exploring autonomous car technology.
Therefore, speculations are on as regards the impact due to the resignation of Knirsch, who was earlier Porsche quality management and engine development head.
In fact, Audi has drawn criticism from analysts for its alleged unwillingness to go for innovation.
