BYD has appointed former Stellantis executive Gianluca Zampese to lead its light commercial vehicle (LCV) business in Europe, the company said on Monday, as it accelerates efforts to expand in the regionâs commercial transport sector.
Zampese, 56, brings over two decades of experience in the European LCV industry and will also serve as BYDâs country manager for Italy. His appointment is part of the Chinese electric vehicle makerâs broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Europe by bringing on board experienced industry leaders.
The company, which became the worldâs top EV seller in 2024, has been revamping its European operations under special adviser Alfredo Altavilla. This includes a series of senior hires, many of whom previously held key roles at Stellantis (STLAM.MI), a major competitor in the European market.
âZampeseâs arrival is aimed at developing the brandâs presence in the light commercial vehicle segment in Europe and particularly in the Italian market,â BYD said in a statement.
Zampese began his career with Fiat in 2005, prior to its merger into Stellantis, taking on a range of positions across Europe as well as in Africa and the Middle East. After departing Stellantis in 2023, he served as country manager for Maxus, a light commercial vehicle brand owned by Chinaâs SAIC Motor.