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Strengthening the Company’s Position in the OE Market, Thomas Brings 25+ Years of Industry Experience to Lead Global Efforts
Ann Arbor, Mich. (April 21, 2025) – RealTruck, a global aftermarket product and accessory brand, and a digital destination for truck, Jeep®, Bronco® and off-road enthusiasts, is continuing to build momentum in the Original Equipment (OE) space by bringing in John Thomas as the new general manager of OE. Thomas is a proven and experienced leader who will guide the transformation both commercially and operationally into a world-class supplier to OEM partners.
“We are thrilled to welcome John Thomas to the RealTruck team as our new General Manager of Original Equipment,” said RealTruck CEO Carl-Martin Lindahl. “His deep industry knowledge and track record of driving growth and innovation make him the perfect fit for this position. John will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the company as we continue to expand our OE capabilities.”
Thomas brings more than 25 years of experience in the OEM and aftermarket automotive industry, where he has led, grown, and transformed organizations, and has built and developed high-performing teams that delivered strong growth and profitability. Passionate about cultural transformation, Thomas focuses on aligning vision and strategy with hands-on leadership, coaching, and motivation to drive lasting organizational success. He is uniquely positioned to deliver value across RealTruck’s business, leveraging his expertise to elevate the brand, drive business growth, integrate its recent acquisition with Vehicle Accessories Group (VAI), and ensure all aspects of RealTruck’s operations meet the evolving needs of its OEM customers.
“I’m excited to join the RealTruck team and looking forward to working cross-functionally to build on the company’s tradition of growth, and build upon its leadership position,” said Thomas. “I intend to leverage all that is special about RealTruck—the history, production footprint, values, culture, and foundation—to create value for its OE customers while accelerating business aspirations. My ultimate goal is to partner with the global RealTruck team to become a transformational catalyst, positioning RealTruck to win with the OEMs.”
In recent years, Thomas served as global chief revenue and marketing officer of Ampure Charging Systems, chief executive officer of Advanced Automotive Advisors LLC, and chief operating officer of Autel Energy. Throughout his career, he has fostered a collaborative, team-oriented leadership style that empowers individuals and drives collective success. His experience has equipped him to unite teams from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives around shared goals and a common vision.
With operations that span the globe, RealTruck is deeply rooted in the United States, with 30 manufacturing and distribution facilities and more than 4,500 U.S.-based associates. RealTruck’s omnichannel retail approach delivers a seamless consumer experience online at RealTruck.com, as well as through its 12,000+ dealer network and automotive OEM partnerships.
To learn more about RealTruck and its leadership team, visit RealTruck.com.
