Prior to joining THINK, Mr Engle was president & CEO of New Holland Agricultural Equipment SpA in Turin, Italy. He has also served in a variety of senior positions with Ford Motor Company, which he joined in 1992, including president & CEO Ford of Canada and president, Ford of Brazil & Mercosul.

Barry Engle said: 'I am very excited and energised by the opportunities that lie ahead. THINK is perfectly positioned to capitalize on the growing consumer and governmental interest in electric vehicles. There is no more compelling opportunity or company in the global automotive sector today. I look forward to leading the THINK team and continuing to work with Richard who I commend for steering the company to the point where it is now poised for rapid growth.'

Mr Canny returns to North America to support THINK’s development in the US, with sales scheduled to start at the end of this year and the start of production in Indiana from early 2011 and to develop new revenue streams for THINK by leading business development efforts and strategic alliances.

He commented: 'I am happy to be handing over the THINK CEO role to Barry, someone who I know well and respect highly.  We’ve worked together closely in the past, and I am confident Barry is the best person to guide and grow the company as we move into the next exciting phase. This transition will also enable me to spend more time in the US at home after living mostly in Europe for an extended period.'

These changes follow the recent appointment of Michael Lock as chief marketing officer. Mr Lock was formerly CEO of Ducati North America and prior to that held senior positions at Triumph and Honda.

Commenting on the new appointments, THINK chairman Charles Gassenheimer, said: 'I am delighted to welcome Barry as CEO.  He brings tremendous experience and know-how and a phenomenal track record of success. He is the perfect person to lead the THINK team going forward. These new roles together with the recent hiring of Michael Lock as chief marketing officer put in place a world class management team at THINK as we expand our global reach and leverage our leadership in EVs and EV drivetrains.'