Greenwell will formally take over the role of chairman at the transport research charity on 15th July 2013, replacing David Quarmby CBE who has been in the position since July 2009.

Prior to becoming chairman of Ford UK, Greenwell had also been: vice president, government affairs, Premier Automotive Group and Ford of Europe; chairman and CEO of Jaguar and Land Rover; and vice president, marketing and operations, Ford Motor Company.

Previously he was also vice president, communications and public affairs, at both Ford of Europe and Jaguar Land Rover.

He was awarded the CBE for services to the Automotive Industry in the Queen's birthday honours list in June 2011.

Greenwell said: ‘After a lifetime in the automotive industry I am very familiar with the important and independent work the RAC Foundation does and I am honoured that I have been given the opportunity to contribute to the organisation's continued success.

‘The Foundation is rightly renowned for its evidence-based advocacy on matters affecting roads policy and the travelling lives of the UK's 35 million motorists. This reputation is in no small part down to the excellent stewardship of the Foundation over the past four years by David Quarmby.

"’Rarely have the issues surrounding road transport – safety, taxation, carbon emissions, funding – been so far up the political agenda. I aim to keep them there and ensure the Foundation continues to make a meaningful contribution to debate at the highest levels.’

David Quarmby added: ‘I am delighted to be handing the baton to Joe Greenwell. Joe brings immense knowledge and experience from his chairmanship of Ford, his leadership role in the automotive industry, and his many dealings with government.

‘His interest in all the aspects of the Foundation's work will ensure that it continues to be a major influence on policy and thinking in motoring, roads and transport matters, speaking as it does on behalf of the responsible motorist and road user.’

As part of his new role Joe Greenwell will also become a trustee of the RAC Foundation and lead the six-strong board of trustees. He will work closely with the Foundation's director Professor Stephen Glaister.