Gary Whittam is joining Ashwoods Automotive as Director of Business Strategy, to drive sales of its new Lightfoot in-cab system for the Ford Transit.

Whittam said: “I am delighted to be joining Ashwoods, which has a great track record in developing low carbon vehicle products that are simple to use but incredibly effective”.

"When I left Ford, I resolved to only work on those van industry issues close to my heart - reducing cost, carbon and improving driver behaviour. These are the big issues facing the van sector right now and Lightfoot meets all three objectives.

"Lightfoot actually engages with drivers, rather than simply criticising them with lots of telematics analysis. By working with drivers, we improve their vehicle control, delivering savings on fuel, CO2 and reducing component wear and tear.”

Whittam started his career as an apprentice truck mechanic and joined Ford Motor Company as a technician in 1978. He was promoted through a wide range of roles within the company over a career spanning 27 years, before retiring in 2006 as commercial vehicle director.

Gary joins Ashwoods Automotive after two years as European sales & marketing director for Azure Dynamics, producer of the Ford Transit Connect Electric.

Whittam is also Chairman of the Freight Transport Association's Van Excellence Governance Group, which promotes operational excellence across the van industry - encompassing operators, manufacturers, dealers and lease providers.

Mark Roberts, managing director of Ashwoods Automotive, said: “Gary is one of the best known and best liked people in the commercial vehicle industry. His breadth of knowledge and passion for this industry are phenomenal; we are delighted to have him on board.

“Gary’s time with Azure Dynamics also gave him a unique experience in business development for a low carbon LCV technology on a Ford platform.”

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