• UPDATE: Daimler Truck Appoints Dennis Kinzelmann to Lead Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks
LEINFELDEN-ECHTERDINGEN, Germany – Daimler Truck AG has appointed Dennis Kinzelmann as the new head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks, effective January 1, 2026.
In his new role, Kinzelmann will also oversee the company’s global defence business and report directly to the CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks.
What is new?
Dennis Kinzelmann, 45, will take charge of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks & Custom Tailored Trucks at the beginning of 2026. He succeeds Franziska Cusumano, 36, who is set to become the Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation in Japan on April 1, 2026.
Key Details of the New Role
Kinzelmann’s responsibilities will include the development, production, and sales for the Mercedes-Benz Unimog, Econic, and Zetros model series. He will also manage Daimler Truck’s global defence business and the custom vehicle conversion operations in Molsheim, Alsace. A significant change in structure means Kinzelmann will report directly to Achim Puchert, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, a move underscoring the strategic importance of the defence segment to Daimler Truck.
Strategic Context
Daimler Truck stated the leadership change comes as it increases its focus on the defence sector amid “changing security policy conditions.” The company is making targeted investments to develop its product portfolio and expand capabilities in this area. In a statement, Achim Puchert noted Kinzelmann’s nearly two decades of leadership experience in the automotive industry. Puchert also credited the outgoing head, Franziska Cusumano, for achieving a “remarkable comeback” in the defence business and establishing key partnerships that created a foundation for future growth.
About this company
Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks is a division within Daimler Truck responsible for the development, production, and sales of the Mercedes-Benz model series Unimog, Econic, and Zetros. It also produces chassis for special-purpose bodies for both civilian and military applications. Based at the Wörth site for over 20 years, the division combines expertise in flexible, small-series production with specialized knowledge for sectors including defence, municipal services, firefighting, and agriculture.
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