The renowned Center for Automotive Research (CAR) in Ann Arbor, Mich., has a new leader in the driver’s seat, Alan Amici, who took over as president and CEO Sept. 1. He succeeds Carla Bailo, who retired after helming CAR for five years, which capped off a 35-year career that also included senior leadership positions at General Motors, Nissan, SAE International, and Ohio State University.

Like his predecessor, Amici brings a wealth of experience to the job, having held executive positions in engineering, manufacturing and service. Most recently he was vice president and chief technical officer at Tier 2 supplier TE Connectivity. Amici previously spent 30 years at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (which merged with PSA Group last year to become Stellantis N.V.) and its Chrysler and DaimlerChrysler predecessors. During his tenure at FCA, Amici served as head of global Uconnect, advancing the company’s infotainment and connected car platform, and head of electrical/electronics engineering.

He holds three degrees from the University of Michigan, owns two patents and received the Walter P. Chrysler Technology Award.

SME Senior Editor Steve Plumb spoke with Amici shortly after he joined CAR. An edited version of their conversation follows.