Image: Tesla

Tesla has secured a seat on the peak body for Australia's automotive industry. The company has a significant influence on the country's automotive market and is the one who creates the EV market here.

The FCAI, the peak body for Australia’s automotive industry, has announced the appointment of a new Chairperson and two new Board members, following the 2023 AGM, which was held on May 24, according to a press release.

Vinesh Bhindi (Managing Director, Mazda Australia) has replaced Matthew Callachor (President and CEO of Toyota Australia) as Chairperson. Matthew has stepped down following three years at the FCAI helm and has been elected Deputy Chairperson, along with Shaun Westcott (President and CEO, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited). Carolyn McMahon (Honda Australia) was appointed FCAI Treasurer.

John Kett (Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor Company Australia), Adam Paterson (Managing Director, Nissan Motor Co Australia, Tony Hinton (General Manager, Honda Motorcycle & Power Equipment Australia), Colin Christie (Managing Director, Inchcape Australia), and Stephen Connor (Managing Director, Volvo Car Australia) were returned to the Board of Directors. Thom Drew (Country Manager, Tesla Australia & New Zealand) and Andrew Birkic (President & CEO, Ford Australia & New Zealand) were newly appointed to the Board.

FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber welcomed the Directors and Office Bearers to their positions.

“I would like to offer my warm welcome to our 2023 Directors and Chairperson.

“The FCAI’s membership encompasses over 63 brands and sub brands. Having a Board made up of a diverse range of Directors from different areas of the marketplace is critical in ensuring the FCAI continues to offer the best representation of Australia’s motoring industry.

“With more change occurring across emissions, intelligent transport, business models and customer experience than ever before, I am confident our Board will provide the critical insight and guidance our industry needs as we move forward,” Mr Weber said.

Tesla's entry into the FCAI board is a great signal. This can be seen as a sign of the company's growing influence in the Australian automotive market. Tesla is the best-selling electric vehicle brand in the country and is already creating competition for internal combustion engine vehicles. Tesla's appointment to the FCAI will also provide a positive impact on the decisions of the body, which has previously opposed the promotion of electromobility.

© 2023, Eva Fox | Tesmanian. All rights reserved.

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Article edited by @SmokeyShorts; follow him on Twitter

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