Clive Sutton plans to sell 20 of the 40 AC MkV models to be built this year at a new factory in Malta.

Sutton will become the UK distributor when output reaches the level when additional outlets are needed.

“I don’t regard this as a return to franchised retailing and AC will not be sold from a separate dealership with the name on show,” says Sutton, who in 2004 sold his stake in a Chrysler-Jeep group in London.

“AC is a further niche in our niche market for specialist European and North American cars.”

AC approached Sutton about selling the £49,500 AC MkV in London as the first step towards a small network (“maybe two or three other outlets.”). He says AC is planning a £150,000 aluminium car.