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In the fourteenth episode of the second season of the IAA TRANSPORTATION PODCAST, we welcome Michael Stomberg, CEO of the MEILLER Group.
Together, we discuss how the demands on vehicle bodies are changing in a transport and logistics industry increasingly shaped by electrification, efficiency, and digitalization—and why robustness, durability, and a consistent focus on customer needs remain crucial throughout these changes.
Michael Stomberg offers exciting insights into the development of this traditional family-owned business, which celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2025. We talk about why long-term thinking and close customer relationships have been part of MEILLER’s DNA for generations, and how the company continuously adapts its solutions to new requirements. Today, it is no longer just about functionality: weight, efficiency, user convenience, digitalization, and the integration of alternative drives are becoming increasingly vital for the interaction between chassis and body.
The conversation also focuses on the new product innovations MEILLER is presenting at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026. With the TECTRUM RS32, the company is showcasing the most powerful variant of its hooklift series. In addition, we discuss the GRANDLOAD, which was named "Product of the Year 2026" by Baugewerbe Magazin, and how MEILLER prioritizes tangible customer benefits with robust, easy-to-maintain, and long-lasting solutions.
A special focus is placed on the electrification of the construction sector. Michael Stomberg explains the new requirements electric and alternative chassis place on body manufacturers and why the overall system of chassis and body must be perfectly coordinated. At the same time, we discuss what needs to happen for electric commercial vehicles to make financial sense for more companies. Beyond initial acquisition costs, Total Cost of Ownership, electricity prices, and sufficient charging infrastructure play a decisive role.
Lightweight construction and payload optimization are also key focal points. Precisely because batteries increase overall vehicle weight, every kilogram saved on the body becomes crucial. MEILLER pursues the goal of reducing weight without compromising on robustness and durability. Increased payload can mean fewer trips and round trips—creating a direct economic advantage for customers.
Furthermore, we explore the digitalization of vehicle bodies, intuitive operating concepts, and the use of operational data to optimize vehicle deployment. Looking further into the future, Michael Stomberg outlines the vision of an increasingly intelligent body that autonomously recognizes its environment and specific task—leading up to a fully autonomous vehicle where the body can perform its duties without driver intervention.
We also learn why close cooperation between body builders and truck manufacturers is of central importance to MEILLER, and why professional visitors can experience the company's solutions at IAA TRANSPORTATION not only at their own stand, but also across numerous vehicle manufacturers' exhibits. For Michael Stomberg, the focus remains above all on personal connection: re-engaging with existing customers, making new contacts, and demonstrating in practice what these bodies can achieve.
The IAA TRANSPORTATION Podcast is a production of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).
Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible and wherever else you get your podcasts.
