Lamborghini is in need of a new chief for its American operations, Automobili Lamborghini America, after the automaker terminated the contract of the American branch's current COO Michael Lock. Neither Lock nor Lamborghini have revealed the decision behind the move, but the automaker in a statement thanked Lock for his help in developing the American branch and in reaching its objectives.

Lock had been COO of Automobili Lamborghini America since January. Previously, he served as marketing officer for failed electric car startup Think as well as CEO of Ducati North America.

Thomas Felbermair, commercial director for Lamborghini, will manage Automobili Lamborghini America together with head of after sales Renè Sueltzner until a replacement for Lock can be found.

Lamborghini sales in the U.S. have been steady, though growth has not been at the pace rival exotic brands have experienced. The automaker managed about 506 sales in the U.S. through November, up 6 percent from last year, according to the Automotive News Data Center. By comparison, Ferrari managed to sell 2,058 cars in the U.S. last year.

However, Lamborghini should enjoy a sales boost next year thanks to a replacement for its aging Gallardo. A teaser campaign for the new model, which many are calling the Cabrera, has already begun.

_______________________________________

Follow Motor Authority on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.