Farizon, the EV commercial vehicle brand from Geely that’s distributed by Jameel Motors UK, has appointed its inaugural head of sales.

With immediate effect, Zoe Tonks will lead the sales team to help accelerate the development of the business after a successful introduction to the UK market.

Tonks, who reports to Farizon UK general manager Calum James, brings a wealth of experience from the automotive retail sector. This includes 14 years at Marshall Motor Group, where she progressed to head of corporate sales, as well as a strong background in OEM operations with her most recent role as head of fleet at Harris Maxus UK.

Tonks commented: “Joining a new brand at such an early stage of its journey in the UK is an exciting challenge. I was attracted to the role in no small part due to the Farizon UK team’s clear approach and strong values, with innovation and customer satisfaction at the top of the list of priorities. The Farizon SV has a lot to offer, and I look forward to helping drive the brand’s ongoing success.”

Calum James added: “Zoe is going to be a real asset to the team, bringing valuable experience from both sides of the manufacturer–retailer relationship. She’s demonstrated strategic and commercial acumen and extensive senior leadership credentials.”

Farizon has also further grown its footprint in the UK with the appointment of Brian Currie (Milton Keynes) as its latest franchised dealer.

As with Farizon’s other franchised dealers – SMV Commercials and Heathrow Van Centre – Brian Currie (Milton Keynes) is an established commercial vehicle specialist, having sold and serviced vans from its site on Summerson Road since 2014.

Farizon also has its own retail space in Park Royal, North London, and the latest dealer addition takes its UK sales and service network to four dealer sites, spread geographically from Yeovil in the South West, to London and now up the M1 corridor.

Farizon’s SV electric large van, which made its official launch at the CV Show in April, is seeking to disrupt the electric van sector with its drive-by-wire platform, cargo capacity of up to 13m3 of cargo space and a payload of up to 1,350kg.

Available in L1 H1, L1 H2, L2 H2, L2 H3 and L3 H3 configurations, the SV offers three battery options, delivering a combined WLTP range of 177 to 247 miles.