#United States #Irvine #Karma Automotive #Mircea Gradu #Stephen Wiessner

Karma Automotive's New Chapter in Leadership

Karma Automotive, recognized as America's sole manufacturer of full-line ultra-luxury vehicles, has taken significant strides in its leadership with the recent appointments of Dr. Mircea Gradu and Stephen Wiessner to pivotal executive management positions. This strategic move, announced on May 18, 2026, aligns with the company’s ambitions to enhance its expertise ahead of the launch of its much-anticipated next-generation EREV Hybrid vehicles, namely the 2027 Karma Gyesera Grande Coupé and the 2028 Karma Amaris GT.

New Appointments

Dr. Mircea Gradu is set to assume the role of Vice President of Vehicle Engineering starting June 1. He brings with him a wealth of experience from various high-profile automotive firms, showcasing a rich background in product development and successful market implementation of automotive technologies. His previous roles include significant positions at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles as Vice President of Transmission Powertrain and at Hyundai Motor America, where he held leadership in Engineering and Quality. Dr. Gradu's passion for innovative technologies is also evidenced by his time at Velodyne Lidar, where he focused on vehicle autonomy solutions, and at Ballard Power Systems, leading efforts in fuel cell technology.

On the other hand, Stephen Wiessner has been appointed as Vice President of Sales and Customer Experience, and he will serve in this capacity immediately. With over twenty years of experience in the automotive industry, his expertise spans across sales leadership and dealer performance optimization, particularly with brands like Maserati and Toyota. Wiessner is known for his analytical approach to leadership and his ability to foster strong relationships, both with dealers and customers, ensuring a focus on profitability and satisfaction.

Building a Strong Foundation for the Future

Marques McCammon, President and CEO of Karma Automotive, expressed enthusiasm over these appointments. He stated, “We’re opening a new chapter in the future of Karma Automotive, and are incredibly proud of our next-generation vehicles. The combination of Mircea and Stephen enhances our executive team and fortifies our strategy for launching these pivotal ultra-luxury cars.”

Karma Automotive stands at the forefront of innovation in the automotive sector, emphasizing its commitment to hybrid technology with the introduction of the Karma Gyesera Grande Coupé and Karma Amaris GT. These models signify a leap towards sustainable luxury, reinforcing the company's pioneering spirit in the hybrid EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) market.

About Karma Automotive

Based in Irvine, California, Karma Automotive is not just a manufacturer; it represents a movement towards environmentally conscious luxury. With its highly regarded Innovation and Customization Center located in Moreno Valley, the brand is committed to redefining what it means to drive luxury vehicles without compromising on conscience or sustainability.

Karma's portfolio, which includes the acclaimed 3rd Generation Revero sport sedan and the robust Revero Invictus, is the embodiment of innovation and design excellence. Each model blends luxury with an eco-friendly approach, catering to a growing market that appreciates responsibility alongside opulence.

With the anticipated arrival of the Gyesera Grande Coupé and Amaris GT, Karma continues to solidify its place in the elite echelons of automotive manufacturers. The Karma Kaveya super-coupe, offering over 1,000 horsepower, is also on the horizon, set to showcase the brand’s ambitious trajectory. Additionally, the company's pioneering SDVA (Software-Defined Vehicle Architecture), developed with tech industry leaders, promises to elevate their EV offerings.

As the automotive landscape evolves, Karma Automotive’s proactive leadership and innovation strategies position it well to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This new chapter marks not only a fresh start for the executive team but also a promising future for the brand’s commitment to luxury and sustainability in the automotive industry.