Who's Where: Gert Hildebrand appointed Head of Design at Qoros Auto

Gert Hildebrand, former General Manager of Mini Design, was appointed Head of Design at Qoros Auto in January this year. In his new role, Hildebrand is responsible for overseeing a regeneration of the existing design and styling processes at the joint venture company, a collaboration between Qoros and Israel Corporation, which was founded in 2007. One of many high level designers making the transition to China, Hildebrand is is currently tasked with leading the creation of the new Qoros brand, which was unveiled at a presentation in Shanghai last week.

Saab 1947-2009: GM 'will close Saab'

By Tim Pollard Motor Industry 18 December 2009 20:33 It's a sad day for Saabphiles, as GM announced – one week to the day before Christmas – that it has failed to find a buyer for Saab. It will begin winding down the Saab operation immediately. There had been a glimmer hope for Saab earlier this month, as supercar maker Spyker stepped in as a possible suitor after similarly small sports car specialist Koenigsegg walked away from a potential deal in November 2009.But GM admitted it could not viably sell Saab to Spyker – and no other bidders were forthcoming.

Jaguar ramps up free maintenance program on 2011 models

Jaguar North America, seeking to dispel lingering image problems and quell concerns about repair costs, is launching a free scheduled maintenance program for all 2011 models. The Jaguar Platinum Coverage program is a 5-year/50,000 mile new vehicle warranty with free scheduled maintenance, no-cost replacement of major wear-and-tear parts and 24/7 roadside assistance. Unlike Jaguar's previous free maintenance program, there is no cost for oil changes, filters, brake pads, brake discs, brake fluids and wiper blade inserts.