Christian Streiff will take over from Sergio Marchionne, Fiat chief executive, on 1 January next year.

Marchionne has held the position of president since 2006 and has played a prominent role in fighting for fairer emissions targets for manufacturers during his tenure.

Streiff said he aimed to carry on the work of his predecessor and would look to “intensify contacts” with European Union legislators.

“I look forward to representing the industry in the ongoing dialogues on important societal topics such as growth and mobility, road safety and climate change”, said Streiff.

“The European automotive industry plays an important role in Europe and needs a sound regulatory framework in which to operate.”