Innovation in Focus: Dr. Kristof Polmans’ Inspiring Lecture at the Department of Automotive Technologies
The Department of Automotive Technologies at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics recently had the privilege of hosting Dr. Kristof Polmans, Senior Vice President of Research and Advanced Engineering at ThyssenKrupp Steering. Invited by the department, Dr. Polmans delivered an inspiring lecture on ThyssenKrupp Steering’s innovation journey, sharing his vast expertise with students and faculty.
With over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, Dr. Polmans began his career at Ford Motor Company and has spent nearly two decades at ThyssenKrupp, where he has been at the forefront of developing advanced technologies and driving innovation. His lecture provided a deep dive into how ThyssenKrupp Steering evolved from a “slow follower” to a true leader in innovation within the industry.
Dr. Polmans highlighted key projects that have played a pivotal role in ThyssenKrupp’s transformation, including Steer by Wire, Brake by Wire systems, and Vehicle Motion Control. These advancements have significantly shaped the company’s path toward becoming a leader in automotive technology.
Beyond the technical achievements, Dr. Polmans also emphasized the importance of leadership and individual contributions in achieving a company’s success. He discussed what distinguishes a leader from a boss, the qualities that define a good leader and a great employee, effective communication strategies, and the key elements of building a high-performing team.
The students in attendance gained valuable first-hand insights into the professional and human principles that guide the development of a leading automotive company. The event offered a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the industry’s top innovators, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry applications.
This lecture was part of the department’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong collaborations between its research community and industry partners, reinforcing the link between academia and the automotive sector.
A special thanks to Ádám Bárdos, Head of the Vehicle Dynamics and Control Research Group, for his instrumental role in organizing this event. His efforts were crucial in making this lecture a reality, highlighting the importance of collaboration in bringing valuable industry insights to the academic community.
