Volkswagen has named Giovanni Palazzo as the head of charging and energy.

He has been overseeing business since 1 July and will also be CEO and head of sales for the Elli brand.

The automaker said his primary focus would be on “expanding the fast-charging network and further advancing the development of VW’s own smart energy platform”.

Closer collaboration between Elli and Electrify America is expected with plans to introduce new business models internationally.

The division aims to strengthen its cooperation with VW group brands and enhance business with private and fleet customers.

“The group can build on the expertise of its brands in the field of charging and energy, in particular Electrify America - the largest open charging network in the US - and Elli, which is already the largest mobility service provider in Europe,” said Palazzo.

“We want to further expand this expertise. Energy management will be an important revenue driver in the future.”