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Lei Zhang

Global VP in Software Development

Lei Zhang is a seasoned technology executive who recently joined CARIAD, Inc. as the CEO of their U.S. operations and global co-lead for the Interior, Infotainment & Digital Experience (IIX) team.1

Background and Experience

Lei Zhang has over 16 years of hands-on experience in the technology industry, specializing in:

  • Android development
  • Embedded Linux
  • Automotive in-vehicle infotainment (IVI)
  • Mobile applications
  • Machine learning
  • Web services

Prior to joining CARIAD, Zhang held several notable positions:

  • VP of Digital Cockpit and Software Development at NIO1
  • VP Software and Chief Architect at Huami (a Xiaomi ecological chain company)
  • Tech Lead Manager for Android Automotive at Google
  • Software engineer at Microsoft

Role at CARIAD

At CARIAD, Lei Zhang has taken on two key leadership roles:

  1. CEO of CARIAD Inc., leading the U.S. tech teams
  2. Global co-lead of the Interior, Infotainment & Digital Experience (IIX) department

He started in these positions in May 2024, succeeding Scott Runner as CEO of CARIAD Inc.1

Expertise and Contributions

Zhang is recognized as one of the leading experts in infotainment technology. His extensive background in building Android OS is expected to help CARIAD deliver enhanced user experiences across all Volkswagen Group brands.1

In January 2023, Lei Zhang was honored with the Software-Defined Vehicle Innovator Award issued by MotorTrend, highlighting his contributions to the automotive technology sector.2

Language Skills

Lei Zhang is bilingual, with:

  • Native or bilingual proficiency in Chinese
  • Full professional proficiency in English2

His diverse experience and technical expertise make Lei Zhang a valuable addition to CARIAD's leadership team as they work to advance software-defined vehicles and digital experiences in the automotive industry.

Highlights

Jul 22 · cariad.technology
CARIAD to co-develop China Electronic Architecture with XPENG
CARIAD to strengthen in-house expertise in active safety functions

Related Questions

What are Lei Zhang's main responsibilities at CARIAD Inc?
How did Lei Zhang's role at NIO prepare him for his position at CARIAD?
What are some of the key projects Lei Zhang has led in his career?
How does Lei Zhang's background in Android and embedded Linux benefit CARIAD?
What is the significance of Lei Zhang's role in the Interior, Infotainment & Digital Experience team?
Lei Zhang
Lei Zhang, photo 1
Lei Zhang, photo 2
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Experience

Global VP, Digital Cockpit and Software Development at CARIAD, Inc.
Global VP, Digital Cockpit and Software Development at NIO

Location

San Francisco Bay Area