Pip:
After many months on the supervisory board, then suddenly into the active business of Kostad - how did that come about?

Wolfgang:
My large network, the knowledge and many years of experience in the field of electric mobility, combined with the technology and inspiration of Kostad and his TOP employees will once again lift us into another dimension "Made in Austria".

What experience have you already gained in the electromobility segment?

I became interested in electromobility more than 14 years ago. Together with the Köstenberger family and the Kostad company, the first charging columns were developed and installed at that time. From that point on, the change in charging standards for electric cars also began. The innovative use of new technologies enabled us to successfully implement large projects together.

You are also a board member of BieM in Austria - have there been synergies with Kostad in the past?

Kostad is the most innovative manufacturer in the areas of DC and AC charging stations, as well as individual charging solutions "Made in Austria". Of course, as a board member I will fully represent Kostad and its products to the outside world! The Federal Initiative eMobility Austria is the independent eMobility cluster for companies, experts and local authorities in Austria. BieM is the Austrian platform for application-oriented implementation of new mobility concepts. Potential users, developers and solution providers meet here.

What are the tasks of a Key Account Manager at Kostad?

Serving key customers are of tremendous importance to Kostad as an emerging company.
My main tasks here are:

• Supporting B2B customers in the selection and implementation of their charging solution for electric vehicles as well as products and solutions in the field of charging infrastructure and mobility concepts, from proposal preparation to contract conclusion.
• Responsibility for generating new business and expanding our customer relationships.
• Lead sales negotiations with lead customers.

Due to the current situation and the associated sharp rise in fuel costs - how will the market develop around electromobility?

Here is a small example: with a consumption of 6.5 liters per 100 km and a fuel price of € 2.1 per liter, a small car consumes over € 2,048 per year. The electric car, under realistic assumptions, consumes only € 502. Of course, this will positively influence electromobility. This price difference will increase even more in the coming years due to significantly rising fuel prices. In addition, this reduces one's dependence on petroleum.

Does this offer a chance to achieve the energy transition in Europe faster than planned - or does it raise several obstacles?

Of course!

Pip: Electric or combustion engine?

Wolfgang: Clearly electric.

Acceleration or comfort?

Comfort and semi-autonomous driving.

Maximum speed or distance?

Distance and uniformity.

Skoda or VW?

Price to performance - Skoda, of course.