Jason Allbutt to head smart UK as CEO

Jason Allbutt has been appointed smart UK’s new CEO, reporting directly to Dirk Adelmann, smart's European chief.

Allbutt has joined the all-electric vehicle brand from his previous role as head of product and planning at Mercedes-Benz UK, a business which he joined as a graduate trainee in 1995.

In his new role as the brand's UK chief, he will oversee the ongoing expansion of Smart in the UK, as the brand transitions into an all-electric car manufacturer under the joint ownership of Mercedes-Benz and Geely.

The manufacturer is about to launch the Smart #3 electric coupé-SUV which will compete with the Volkswagen ID.5 and is priced from £32,950. The vehicle offers five different versions and a range of up to 283 miles.

Allbutt takes the reins from David Browne, who is leaving the company after successfully relaunching the Smart brand in the UK and positioning it for future success.

Allbutt, commenting on his new role, stated: "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.”

David Browne, outgoing CEO, smart UK, added: “It’s been a privilege to have had the opportunity to relaunch the iconic smart brand in the UK. Having completed my objective of setting up the new UK operation, and building a sector-leading team, I’m now ready for my next challenge. I’m pleased that in Jason, with his extensive experience of the smart brand, the company has someone who’s ideally placed to lead it into the next chapter.”