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David Smitherman Assumes CEO Role at EVDirect: A New Chapter for BYD’s Australian Operations
David Smitherman is the new CEO of EVDirect, the Australian importer of BYD cars. Luke Todd, the founder of EVDirect, will remain involved as the Managing Director and Executive Chairman.
Dew Briefs :
David Smitherman is the new CEO of EVDirect, the Australian importer and distributor of BYD cars. Luke Todd, the founder, will remain involved as the Managing Director and Executive Chairman. Smitherman previously worked at Ateco Group and served as the General Manager of Strategy and CEO of Fiat Chrysler New Zealand.
Diver Insights :
- David Smitherman is the new CEO of EVDirect, the Australian importer of BYD cars.
- Luke Todd, the founder of EVDirect, will remain involved as the Managing Director and Executive Chairman.
- Prior to EVDirect, Smitherman was the General Manager of Strategy at Ateco Group, which imports LDV, Renault, Maserati, and Ram vehicles.
- Smitherman also served as CEO of Fiat Chrysler New Zealand under Ateco Group.
- Before Ateco Group, Smitherman worked for the now-defunct Daewoo brand.
- BYD, the brand imported by EVDirect, was the global leader in electric vehicle sales in 2023.
- EVDirect aims to be one of the Top Five new-car brands in Australia by 2025 and surpass Toyota in sales by 2030.
- EVDirect plans to release at least two new BYD models in Australia each year, with four models scheduled for 2024.
- Smitherman is excited and honored to join EVDirect and contribute to BYD’s success.
- Toyota has been the top-selling car brand in Australia for over two decades.
David Smitherman has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of EVDirect, the Australian importer and distributor of BYD cars. This appointment marks a significant change in leadership as founder Luke Todd transitions to the role of Managing Director and Executive Chairman.
Mr. Smitherman brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as the General Manager of Strategy at Ateco Group, a prominent importer of various automotive brands including LDV, Renault, Maserati, and Ram. He also held the position of CEO at Fiat Chrysler New Zealand as part of the Ateco Group.
Before his time at Ateco Group, Mr. Smitherman worked for the now-defunct South Korean brand Daewoo, further adding to his extensive industry knowledge and expertise.
EVDirect has set ambitious goals for the future, aiming to introduce at least two new BYD models to the local market each year. In fact, they have plans to launch four new models by 2024, demonstrating their commitment to growth and innovation.
Mr. Smitherman expressed his excitement and honor in joining the EVDirect team, recognizing the company’s potential and the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of BYD in Australia. With his vast experience and strategic mindset, he is well-positioned to lead EVDirect into a new era of expansion and achievement.
