Scania Group China appoints Song Lihui as new Managing Director of NEXT ERA Commercial

Scania Group China has appointed Song Lihui as the new Managing Director of NEXT ERA Commercial, effective from July 15^th. He succeeds Volker Hillmann, who will remain in Shanghai to assume a new role within TRATON. This strategic leadership transition is in line with Scania’s long-term commitment to the Chinese market.

A Shanghai native born in 1981, Song Lihui brings over two decades of P&L and operational leadership experience across the steel, materials, automotive, and environmental services sectors. Most recently, as Regional President, Asia Pacific at Harsco Environmental, he led the regional strategy, commercial growth, and operational excellence across APAC. In his new position Lihui will report to Camilla Dewoon, Executive Vice President of Scania Group and Head of Scania Group China. 


“I am inspired by Scania management's unwavering commitment to its China strategy, and I look forward to working with our team, dealers, and customers to shape the future of NEXT ERA together,” said Song Lihui.

Over the past four years, NEXT ERA has achieved significant milestones, including the development and launch of a new product portfolio specifically designed for China’s long-haul volume market in collaboration with Scania R&D China. Furthermore, NEXT ERA successfully established its own independent sales and service network. These initiatives marked a strong operational start, backed by positive customer feedback.

Reflecting on the new appointment, Camilla Dewoon thanks Volker for laying a solid foundation and commented: “ Lihui’s deep local roots and deep commercial expertise are required in the next phase of the development of NEXT ERA in China, placing us even closer to our Chinese customers and partners, which is in accordance with our vision, business model, and operational approach.”