Eco City Vehicles, the co-developer and exclusive supplier of the London licensed Mercedes Vito taxi, has appointed a former Lookers and Dixon Motors executive as its new chief executive.

Parker succeeds Peter DaCosta, who becomes non executive director after 38 years with the business he founded, is charged with leading the growth of the Mercedes Vito taxi in the London market and to develop new regional markets and further niche products.

Parker has previously held senior executive roles at a number of major motor retailers including Dixon Motors, Lookers and RBS Car Division, and most recently as chief executive of motor home retail group Discover Leisure, which went into administration in 2011.

John Swingewood, ECV's chairman, said: "Trevor brings a wealth of motor industry and PLC experience to lead the group through the next phase of its development. 

Parker said: "I have been impressed with the strong market position carved out by ECV in the London taxi trade through the launch of the innovative Mercedes Vito taxi. This provides us with a solid platform for further growth and long term expansion into niche sectors where we can leverage our key strengths."