Four years of Flux Mobility - a look back, forward and into the heart of a company

An interview with the founders Duga Hoti and Bill Zollinger, the new Managing Director Johnny Herzog and long-standing employees Andreas Freese and Rafael Koch.

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What goes through your mind when you look back on four years of Flux Mobility?

Duga Hoti: It has been an intense journey with many ups and downs. We have celebrated great successes, helped to shape a changing market and were able to achieve extraordinary things with fantastic people.

Andreas Freese: It was the fastest and at the same time the most exciting four years of my life. I don't think I've learned and experienced as much in any other time as I have here.

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How did the idea for Flux Mobility come about?

Bill Zollinger: The idea had been maturing for months before the company was founded. We sensed a clear need on the market for a suitable all-electric delivery van - but there were no suitable solutions.

Duga Hoti: Exactly. The products on the market at the time were unable to meet the requirements of many customers. We wanted to close this gap. What initially seemed like a gamble has now proved to be absolutely right.

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What was your original vision - and is it still valid today?

Duga Hoti: Absolutely. Our goal is to build the best commercial vehicle for our customers. Customer needs are at the center of every product decision.

Bill Zollinger: That's what makes Flux special. From day one it was clear to us: we build vehicles for people, not for tables. This attitude runs through everything we do.

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Was there ever any doubt about the company's continued existence?

Bill Zollinger: No. There were and still are constant challenges. But that's exactly what motivates me: tackling, solving, improving.

Duga Hoti: I never thought about giving up. Sure, there were often doubts from the outside. As a team, we have firmly believed since day one that we are making an important contribution to the world and have never had any doubts or thoughts of giving up.

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Johnny, you've been on board since January 1st. What attracted you to Flux?

Johnny Herzog: I am a passionate car fan and I was immediately fascinated by the idea of building commercial vehicles in Switzerland. Innovation paired with Swissness is an unbeatable combination. I wanted to be part of this story.

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How were your first 100 days as Managing Director?

Johnny Herzog: Intensive! I got to know an incredibly motivated team that welcomed me openly from day one. There were many construction sites, but also many opportunities. I am here every day with enthusiasm.

‍DugaHoti: We are very happy to have you on board, Johnny. Your experience and your energy are very important in this phase of the company and will be groundbreaking for the future.

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What makes Flux special for you?

Johnny Herzog: Flux lives customer proximity like hardly any other company. There's no prohibition on thinking here, no "we've always done it this way" mentality. That is inspiring.

Rafael Koch: For me, the meaningfulness of our work makes all the difference. I can see every day that I am making a difference with my work.

Andreas Freese: And technically speaking, it's extremely exciting. We are working on a proverbial greenfield site. My input is heard and valued. That cannot be taken for granted.

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How has your everyday life developed?

Andreas Freese: In the beginning, I did a lot of things myself, from conception to production. Today, I lead my own team - that's a great development.

Rafael Koch: I was able to grow with the company, take on new tasks and also gain my first experience in HR. Thanks to the close collaboration at Flux, I realized that I was interested in HR-related tasks. I am currently gaining my first experience in this area. Working with people fascinates me. It will be exciting to see how this desire develops in me.

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How do you describe the culture at Flux?

Rafael Koch: We are united by a common desire to create an exceptional product. That motivates us all.

Duga Hoti: We are working to establish a culture that is both performance-oriented and human. We want to encourage people, but also challenge them. And in a respectful way. The fact that the company is growing means that people also need to develop in their functions and positions. This is demanding - but offers the greatest possible opportunity for development. We welcome people who appreciate this challenge.

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How do you feel after 100 days, Johnny?

Johnny Herzog: During my time in Formula 1, I felt the same way. The environment, or rather the work, was characterized by competition. Nevertheless, it was crucial that the team worked together and supported each other to become even better. I feel the same way here.

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Where do you see Flux in ten years?

Bill Zollinger: As an established manufacturer with top technical performance. And with the courage to break new ground.

Andreas Freese: I hope that our team spirit remains.

Rafael Koch: I am convinced that Flux will remain a place that is valuable for people. For those who work there and for those who use the products.

Johnny Herzog: In ten years' time, we will have further strengthened our position in the industry. The quality of our vehicles will still be decisive in our decisions.

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Finally: Please complete the sentence: "Flux is for me..."

Rafael Koch: ...my destiny. Like a family.

Andreas Freese: ...a place where you can grow.

Johnny Herzog: ...the strongest and most agile team in the industry.

Bill Zollinger: ...the symbiosis of passion and innovation.

Duga Hoti: ...my boyhood dream for as long as I can remember.

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