Pictured: David Roberts

Following the commencement of large-scale battery pack production for its customer, Mia Electric, and to support a robust pipeline of deals, Evida Power, Ltd., a leading designer and manufacturer of lithium-ion battery packs for electric vehicles (EVs), has today announced the appointment of David Roberts as Executive Chairman of the Board. David's appointment will support the management team's efforts to capitalise on the growing demand for Evida's products and services and to prepare the company for further expansion.

David joins Evida with a wealth of automotive experience gained during a highly distinguished career that has spanned more than 30 years, primarily in the manufacturing sector. David's strong track record of achievement includes the successful turnaround of Chrysler UK and its sale to the PSA Group, and the development and implementation of a complete quality assurance strategy at Aston Martin. David has also served as executive chairman for a wide ranging portfolio of global companies including Parsons Peebles, GB Federal, Soda Club and the Trimite Group.

In his new role, David will be responsible for developing and implementing strategy, ensuring operational and production stability and optimisation of resources. The expansion of the leadership team comes in response to a growing demand from OEMs for Evida's high quality and cost effective battery pack and integration solutions, and the company's desire to expand its product portfolio and develop new businesses.

Harold Wiener, General Partner of Terra Partners, Israel's premier clean energy venture capital fund and the lead investor in Evida, said: "David's decision to devote his time to Evida is a strong vote of confidence in the company's business model. His experience, knowledge and industry connections will be instrumental in sustaining the growth of Evida's client and product portfolios, while driving greater efficiencies across the business."

Commenting on his appointment, David Roberts said: "I am honoured to be appointed to the role of Executive Chairman of Evida. It is a privilege to become an integral part of an organisation that is setting new standards in EV battery production and technologies. Evida's vision and current positioning present a tremendous growth opportunity and I am looking forward to providing leadership and tactical advice to the Board and the management team, and to reinforcing Evida's position in the EV sector and its presence in key markets."

David will also continue in his position of investment manager at Gemini Turnaround, a UK-based specialist situation recovery fund.

Furthermore, Evida has recently made two other senior appointments as it expands its technical and sales divisions. Robert Watson has joined in the role of Senior Engineer, following his work at Norwegian electric vehicle manufacturer, Think Global, and Nigel Vincent has joined Evida as Technical Sales Manager, bringing over 15 years of experience in the battery technology sector to his new position.

During an impressive 30-year career in the automotive profession, Robert Watson spearheaded several successful projects in various management roles, including a long period as Head of the Technical Department at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), and as Vehicle Engineering Manager at Aston Martin Lagonda and Rolls Royce Motor Cars.

In his role as Sales Manager, Nigel Vincent will be responsible for driving further growth of the business in the UK and abroad. Nigel formerly held the position of Key Account Manager at Sanyo Component Europe, and more recently, served as Sales Manager for ABSL Power Solutions, where he supported lithium-ion cell and battery pack development for OEMs. His activity at ABSL saw him successfully win clients in new industries and diversify the business away from their traditional core markets.

Complementing the recent hires, Dr. Francois Wasservogel, the former EVP of Product Engineering at Renault, continues to serve on Evida's Advisory Board. Dr. Wasservogel, a recognised figure in the automotive world, who has enjoyed over 35 years in the motoring industry, provides Evida with guidance on business issues, strategic partnerships and technology development, as well as access to his vast network of contacts.