Honda Revo 110 Piston on 2040-parts.com

McLaren managing director on leave, not expected in Geneva

McLaren Automotive's U.S.-born managing director, Antony Sheriff, is expected to be absent from the launch of the P1 hypercar at Geneva next week because he is on extended leave from the company. No reason for Sheriff's absence has been given, although McLaren is at pains to point out that he is “still employed as McLaren Automotive's managing director.” Rumors were circulating about Sheriff's absence from Woking in January, but company spokesmen back then stressed that he was still employed by McLaren and would unveil the P1 at Geneva. Despite those assurances, sources had reported earlier in the year that Sheriff “hadn't been seen in his office” for some days.

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Mercedes-Benz has announced the 2012 M-Class. The third generation off-roader is said to ‘set a new benchmark in the SUV segment’ in terms of design, consumption and comfort. Boasting an array of mechanical and technological enhancements, the M-Class is said to be vastly improved both on and off road.

Sergio bows at Pininfarina Tribute Rally

Pininfarina showed its Sergio barchetta concept at an event in the UK last week where the main aim was to set a record for the largest number of Pininfarina cars gathered in a single location. As Autoweek went to press, the total was nudging towards 200, an early audit of the delectable selection of machinery arranged on the lawns around Hurtwood Park Polo Club suggesting at least 180 cars with more still to report. “We're hoping to get over the magic 200, but will have to wait and see,” said Gary John on behalf of the organizers, Brokersclub.