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Who's Where: Peter Arcadipane appointed BAIC's design director

Peter Arcadipane has joined BAIC as its new design director. Based at its new hi-tech design facility in Beijing, China, he oversees a team of around 130 designers. The Australian designer, formerly of Mercedes-Benz, has been challenged to steer state-owned BAIC towards a more coherent and strategic position within China, with its chairman wanting to take the carmaker more upmarket.

Armored Škoda Superb from SVOS has a few tricks up its sleeve

We've all read about armored BMW and Mercedes-Benz cars, and a few of us can even spot them in traffic, but there are plenty of armored options for slightly less flash transportation. Large German sedans make great platforms for armoring, and are one of the most popular choices in countries where there is a need for that sort of thing, but they're far from being the only sedans that can offer security-minded customers the relative peace of mind that comes with ownership of such a car. Besides, if you need to travel discreetly, a Mercedes-Benz S-class isn't always the best option -- which is why armoring companies will gladly modify less-obvious cars like the new Škoda Superb.

Volvo sets prices for 2010 models

Volvo Cars of North America has set prices on its 2010 models. On Monday, the automaker released a pricing list that ranges from an S80 V8 AWD A for $51,800 to a C30 T5 manual for $24,950, including the $850 shipping charge. Volvo has also set the price for its newest version of the XC60.