(Reuters) - Northvolt's co-founder Paolo Cerruti will step down from his role as chief executive officer of its North American division, the Swedish electric-vehicle battery maker said on Thursday.

Karen Chang - who has played a key role in the company's Canada-based battery gigafactory, Six project - will serve as interim CEO in the transition period.

Cerruti will retain his role as chairman of the board of the Canadian entity, the statement said, adding that "Paolo will continue to support the growth and success of Northvolt North America from a strategic perspective."

He will remain involved in the ongoing development of Northvolt Six, the company said.