Rina Suka: When did you first think about producing your own electric vehicles and introducing them to the market?

Martin Kyburz: The idea first occurred to me in 1990. At that time, I was employed as an electrical engineer and spent my free time designing and building vehicles.

Rina: What impressive experience had the greatest impact on you before you embarked on the path to self-employment?

Martin: At my previous employer, the engineers were not allowed to work directly on the systems or machines, which led to a separation between engineers and mechanics. In addition to my work, I always spent a lot of my free time building my own vehicle projects. This experience had a strong influence on me and motivated me all the more to take the plunge into self-employment in 1991 and launch my KYBURZ electric vehicles on the market. However, it was important for me to establish a culture of cooperation on an equal footing in my own company.

Rina: Your professional strengths are certainly crucial to your success. What do you see as your particular strengths?

Martin: My ability to think ahead and recognise other people's moves at an early stage. I often have visionary ideas that I quickly document and implement. One example of this is the Cheetah. Even before it was developed, I had a clear idea of how the vehicle should be designed. I immediately captured this vision on paper and realised it together with a small team in a very short space of time.

Rina: Our electric vehicles have many unique features. What fascinates you personally most about your innovations?

Martin: I was particularly fascinated by the robustness and user-friendliness of our vehicles. The ability to customise each vehicle to meet the individual needs of our customers is another aspect that I really like. We are happy to implement the customisations that our customers, such as postmen and women, require and thus continuously adapt our vehicles to better meet the needs of our customers.

Rina: What is your personal long-term goal for KYBURZ? Which markets or regions do you see as particularly promising for the company's growth?

Martin: My personal goal for KYBURZ is to serve people and the environment with sustainable vehicles. My focus is also on battery recycling and the efficient use of raw materials. It is less important to me in which country our products are successful, but rather that they are appreciated and utilised. In terms of the company's growth, I see potential in various markets and regions that have a need for sustainable transport solutions.

Rina: Can you give us an insight into your day-to-day work? 

Martin: My day always starts at home, where I go through my e-mails and get an overview of the tasks that need to be done. I then plan my day and set three clear goals that I want to achieve that day. My day-to-day work is characterised by a large number of meetings and occasional discussions with interested parties, suppliers and other entrepreneurs. These interactions are extremely exciting for me as I gain different perspectives and insights.

I make a point of being well prepared for meetings. Following up on tasks from the previous week and preparing for the coming week also take up a lot of my time.

In the evenings, I like to devote myself to leisure activities and my hobbies, so I try to maintain a good work-life balance.

Rina: Beyond the business world of running your company, how do you organise your free time?

Martin: In my free time, I like to build model aeroplanes or renovate my old boat. I also play the piano and enjoy listening to music. I'm also currently in the process of building a campervan out of an old delivery vehicle. Reading and further education are also among my interests.

Rina: What do you personally value in your private or business life?

Martin: Respectful behaviour and open communication are important to me in both my private and business life. I believe that mutual respect and cooperation are the key to success.

Rina: How do you keep fit? Does exercise and fitness play a big role in your life? 

Martin: I work out twice a week on the exercise bike, enjoy swimming and go for walks with my partner. I used to surf and ski a lot and would like to do these activities more often again.

Rina: Do you have a special travel destination that you would like to visit?

Martin: I am fascinated by the countries of Europe and enjoy travelling with my electric vehicle. With my partner, I like travelling to countries where we can immerse ourselves in the history, culture and nature. Scandinavia, Spain, England and Croatia are on the list for our next destinations.