Stuart Smallwood, a veteran of the automotive and commercial vehicle industry, today announces the launch of Next Gear Leasing Ltd, after 18 years trading as E-Drive West Midlands.
Moving from a franchise model to a fully independent brokerage, the rebrand marks a strategic shift toward providing customers with greater vehicle choice, direct-to-source pricing, and a truly consultative “problem-solving” approach to leasing.
While the name is new, the foundation remains solid. The move to independence was fuelled by Stuart’s desire to offer more flexibility and choice, away from the limitations of a franchise system, giving him a more agile, client-focused operation.
“This isn’t just a name change; it’s about removing the barriers between the customer and the best possible deal,” says Stuart Smallwood, Director of Next Gear Leasing Ltd. “By going fully independent, I can now go directly to the source, offering a wider range of vehicles and more competitive, transparent funding solutions.”
Stuart’s unique background has shaped Next Gear’s “solution-led” philosophy. Unlike high-volume brokers that focus solely on the “cheapest monthly payment,” Next Gear prioritises a deep-dive qualifying process to ensure the vehicle fits the client’s lifestyle or business needs.
“I’ve always believed in a consultative approach,” Stuart continues. “Whether it’s helping a business owner decide between personal or business leasing based on tax efficiency, sourcing a bespoke tipper for a builder or finding the perfect vehicle for getting all the children in the back of the car with minimal faff, I’m here to solve the practical problems that dealerships often overlook.”
Next Gear Leasing Ltd is now officially operating under its new identity. Customers looking for expert advice on their next vehicle can contact Stuart directly to take their driving experience to the “Next Gear”.
