CODA Automotive Names Thomas Hausch as Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Aftersales

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomas Hausch joins CODA Holdings, a leading developer of advanced Lithium-ion power battery systems for its all-electric CODA Sedan, EV propulsion system and stationary energy storage application, in the newly created role of Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Aftersales for CODA Automotive, responsible for leading CODA's distribution and marketing efforts as the CODA all-electric car goes on sale.

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"CODA is quickly moving forward with market launch and we're excited for Thomas to lead this critical phase prior to our roll-out," said Phil Murtaugh, CEO, CODA Holdings. "He brings a wealth of international marketing experience and extensive branding, sales and distribution knowledge that will be critical as we bring our sedan to market and expand our business over the next years."

With more than 20 years in the automotive industry, Hausch has been responsible for the launch of numerous cars, brands and networks in America, Europe and other international markets. Prior to joining CODA, Hausch was the Vice President Europe, Middle East & Africa for Chrysler Group, LLC based out of Stuttgart, Germany, where he established and oversaw all new and existing wholesale, retail and production entities. Prior to moving back to Europe, Hausch was Vice President of International sales and Executive Director of International Sales and Marketing for Chrysler Group and DaimlerChrysler in Auburn Hills, Michigan. He was responsible for Sales, Marketing, Product Management, Aftersales, Distribution, Strategy and International Product Creation for over 150 markets, achieving record sales and profitability numbers in the overall international business from 2006 until the end of his tenure in 2008. Before moving to Michigan, Hausch worked for Mercedes-Benz as the Head of Market Management Europe for the Mercedes Car Group. Hausch began his career at Daimler-Benz AG and has held numerous development, assembly, sales, corporate strategy and International management positions within the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Hausch holds a Diploma in Business Engineering from Fridericiana University of Karlsruhe in Germany and an MBA from the University of Southern California.  

"As electric vehicle technology has advanced and global governmental support has shifted to promote oil independence, I'm excited to bring CODA to the forefront of consumer's minds as they shop for a new car," said Hausch. "As an EV only company, I believe that CODA is in a great position to launch the next mode of transportation with its purpose built battery system, active thermal management, seating for five and all of the essential elements needed in an everyday vehicle."

About CODA Holdings: Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, CODA Holdings is a leading developer of advanced Lithium-ion power battery systems comprised of three key divisions: CODA Automotive, CODA EV Propulsion Systems and CODA Energy. Together with its JV partners, CODA is working to reduce dependence on oil and leading the way to a cleaner future through its electric vehicles and stationary energy storage products. The first consumer product available will be a zero emission four-door, five-passenger EV sedan with a full-size trunk that is designed to meet American drivers' daily transportation needs. For more information on the CODA sedan, visit www.codaautomotive.com.

SOURCE CODA Automotive