Smart announces new UK CEO

Smart has named Jason Allbutt as its new UK CEO, to lead the company through its next chapter of growth.

Allbutt joins the electric vehicle brand from Mercedes-Benz UK, where he was the head of product and planning.

He replaces David Browne, who is leaving the business having successfully fulfilled his brief to relaunch the brand in the UK.

Allbutt said: "I’m delighted and honoured to be joining Smart as UK CEO at this exciting time for the business and the automotive industry. The revitalised smart has had a stellar start and I’m looking forward to further developing such a dynamic brand in the UK market, with the popular, award-winning #1, and #3 which goes on sale very soon. I can’t wait to get started.”

Smart relaunched in 2023, following its partial acquisition by Geely. The company is now owned by Daimler and Geely as part of a 50:50 venture.

Its debut model, the Smart #1, uses a Geely platform and powertrain combined with styling from Mercedes-Benz. It was swiftly followed by the Smart #3, with further model launches in the pipeline.

The company's fleet sales are managed by former Suzuki fleet boss Graeme Jenkins.