Goudswaard new head of R&D at Continental

Edwin Goudswaard has taken charge of the research and development activities at Continental Tires.

He replaces Dr. Boris Mergell, who took over as head of the user experience business area at Continental Automotive on 1st September.

Goudswaard began his career at Continental in 2006, shortly after completing his mechanical engineering studies. Following an international R&D trainee program, he worked in virtual development and product development for original equipment tyres.

Between 2013 and 2021, Dutch-born Goudswaard assumed various management roles in R&D and in the production facilities for two-wheeler and passenger car tyres in Europe and Asia.

In 2021, the 44-year-old was appointed head of the two-wheel tyre business area. He was most recently responsible for Continental’s global research and development activities in the passenger car tyre replacement business.

“Edwin Goudswaard has acquired an incredible depth and breadth of experience in a range of different positions worldwide. This will stand him in good stead as the new head of our R&D department,” said Christian Kötz, head of the tyres group sector and member of the executive board of Continental AG.

“I would like to thank Boris Mergell for his many years of dedication to Continental Tires. Together with the global tyres team, he has implemented numerous development projects with enormous success, frequently breaking new technological ground in the process.”