Petrol sales '25% lower than 2008'

Petrol sales have plunged in the first half of this year – but diesel sales have risen sharply. Retail petrol sales for the period January to June dipped 5.8% compared with the same period last year, Government figures highlighted by the AA showed. The numbers amount to a fall of 512 million litres.

Volkswagen launches 'Future of the Car'

Volkswagen has launched a new micro-site which looks at what people may be driving in the future - or whether they will be driving at all. Revolving around a short film set in the year 2028, in which a father tells his son about the automobile world of 20 years ago, the website showcases the Wolfsburg-based automaker's vision of the automotive world 20 years from now. These 'visions of the future', which take shape in the form of three autonomous concept cars called the 'One', 'Ego' and 'Room', offer an insight into the automotive world of tomorrow as seen through the tinted spectacles of Volkswagen developers and designers.

Saab gets more cash from China partner

Saab has received another cash boost from its new China partner Pang Da with an additional order for 630 cars, worth 15 million euros or $21.7 million at current exchange rates. The order comes on top of an order for 1,300 cars worth $43.3 million (30 million euros) received by Saab from Pang Da in May. The Chinese company will pay in advance for the order and delivery of the vehicles will start in the third quarter, Saab said.