After Kalkhoven’s death, Cosworth makes Leadership Changes

After the death of co-owner Kevin Kalkhoven, Cosworth, a leader in automotive powertrain technologies, has announced a wholesale change to its leadership team, as it prepares for sustainable growth and further success.

Co-Owner with Kalkhoven, Gerald Forsythe has been appointed chairman, and he has secured the services of leading luxury automotive and motorsport consultancy R-Universe to join him on the leadership team. Dr. Florian Kamelger is being appointed Cosworth’s new CEO and Dr. Andreas Baenziger will become deputy chairman. Both will join the company’s board of directors.

The new team will now begin a full evaluation of the business with the emphasis on building on its core expertise of developing and manufacturing world-leading powertrains by utilizing the talent in Cosworth’s different business units – Cosworth Propulsion, Delta Cosworth and Cosworth Electronics – as well as investing in new technologies to keep the company at the vanguard of automotive propulsion.

Gerald Forsythe, Chairman, Cosworth “After many years as a shareholder of Cosworth I am delighted to take on the role of Chairman. Cosworth is a world-class company, with world-class talent and expertise, and a customer base that is the envy of the industry. We remain convinced that internal combustion engines have a long future, powering cars in the luxury sector, and it is this core sector where we see the most opportunity for sustainable growth. This is one of the many reasons why we have sought the unparalleled expertise of R-Universe. I am convinced that with Florian as our new CEO and Andreas joining me on the board, we have the right leadership team to propel Cosworth to even greater success.”

Dr. Florian Kamelger, CEO Cosworth “I am hugely excited to be taking on this new challenge. Cosworth is an illustrious brand that I have always admired, and it is an honor to be asked to lead a team of such outstanding talent, preparing the business for an exciting future. There will be changes that we have to make, as Cosworth has seen many in its 66-year history. Every time it has emerged stronger, fitter and at the forefront of automotive technology. It deserves to be seen as a true global luxury automotive brand, and the entire team will be working tirelessly to achieve that.”

Cosworth was founded in 1958 by legendary Lotus engineers Mike Costin and Keith Duckworth. It is headquartered in Northampton, UK and has a facility in Indianapolis, IN. Cosworth is currently developing custom V12 engines for Gordon Murray Automotive and Aston Martin, and it has recently announced a partnership with the revitalized Bizzarrini brand.

The company includes electrification specialties with the Delta Cosworth and Cosworth Electronics divisions – focusing on high-voltage battery development and production as well as hybrid and EV control systems, drivetrains and full vehicle programs.