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We must change our style of mobility. The question is ‘Do I need a two-ton vehicle to drive five kilometers or can I walk, use the bicycle or take public transport?’ We need to change the mix of energy needed for mobility, which is why electrification is so important.

Collaborating with Magna colleagues in a systems approach to innovation brings together people and perspectives at all levels of the company – and allows engineers like Sascha Germer to think big.

Germer, a Magna engineer for concept vehicles based in Lannach, Austria, is part of a team focusing on the next level of powertrain technology. A recent milestone: the 2021 debut of the Magna EtelligentEco, an intelligent, connected plug-in hybrid electric vehicle system that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 38%. The new technology will be presented to potential customers this summer.

“I not only collaborate with engineers, but also product managers and senior managers in different areas of expertise,” said Germer, a 13-year Magna veteran. “We are developing new products and new ideas for the future of the company – and for the people who buy cars.”

Vehicle electrification is a top priority.

Germer is responsible for the functional integration of software, electronics and mechanical components in the concept cars used to showcase Magna technology. Magna buys premium production vehicles and transforms them into concept cars to show its best-in-class products, such as EtelligentEco. This approach gives the customer a real-world look at how new technology will fit and function in its products.

In addition to helping Magna define the future, Germer is growing in his career.

“I switched jobs in 2020,” he explained. “I was working on vehicle dynamics in all-wheel- drive powertrains. I wanted to develop something new and have more connections with other Magna people. I wanted more responsibility and I want to be involved in the future of our products. This job was a good opportunity to gain experience and step into some big shoes.”

His new role also aligns nicely with his personal values and interests.

Germer is an avid cyclist who enjoys hiking, mountaineering and back-country skiing. He owns five bicycles and often cycles the 25 kilometers from his home in Graz to his job in Lannach. On the weekends, he uses a Volkswagen T5 van that he customized with solar panels on the roof.

“As humans, we waste too much from Mother Earth,” Germer said. “We must change our style of mobility. The question is ‘Do I need a two-ton vehicle to drive five kilometers or can I walk, use the bicycle or take public transport?’ We need to change the mix of energy needed for mobility, which is why electrification is so important.”

Collaboration with other Magna experts helps Germer to “focus on the right next steps and to prioritize.”

“It’s a simple formula,” he said. “If there is collaboration, we are successful.”