Leach’s role in the Shanghai-based company has been described as a technical role to oversee future technologies for the company’s expanding portfolio of businesses.

“Martin is the NEXTEV President and is also taking a role in the technical side too,” said NEXTEV Formula E CEO, Steven Lu.

“He will work closely with the team on development and his position through the whole organisation will take a long-term view on the exciting future for EV development on the track and also on the road for NEXTEV.”

Leach, who is attending the first season two race in Beijing this weekend, is a former kart racer who has also raced in sportscar events in Europe.

As well as being president of Ford between 2002-03, Leach was also the CEO of Maserati between 2004-05.