The Chrysler Group in the US has named a new executive to head the reintroduction of the Fiat brand to the local market.

Laura Soave has been named to oversee the roll-out of the Fiat brand, beginning with the Fiat 500 compact car.

Soave had been working at Volkswagen of America, where she was head of marketing initiatives.

Fiat cars have not been sold in North America for more than 25 years.