Only one in five new...
Only one in five new cars sold in Britain is built here, and the proportion is expected to fall even further - thanks to the Koreans. Sales in the UK of models made by south-east Asian firms Hyundai, Kia and GM Daewoo will top 100,000 for the first time in 2004. Experts say they will import even more cars during 2005.
As things get under...
As things get under way at the Detroit Motor Show, Mercedes has just announced the release of two special edition cars that won"t be on the show-floor in America.
First up is the SL "Night Edition", which is finished in a matt black paint and fitted with 19-inch AMG alloy wheels and darkened lights. A "Night Edition" badge on the front wing identifies the new model.
Inside, the cabin is just as exclusive. Black leather upholstery dominates the interior but silver detailing in the seats and vents provides a stylish contrast.
Elsewhere, Mercedes also introduced the SLK "Grand Edition", which is set apart from the standard car by its elegant graphite paint-job and 5-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels.
The interior is finished in grey leather with red stitching and the glovebox and floormats are embossed with a "Grand Edition" logo.
Both special edition cars are available to order now. Depending on the engine, the additional cost is between 3700 and 5200 Euro for the SL "Night Edition" and between 2300 and 3500 Euro for the SLK "Grand Edition".