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Caterham AeroSeven Concept previews future production model

Hot on the stripped-down heels of the Caterham Seven 165 and Caterham 620R, the company revealed a next-generation vehicle, the AeroSeven Concept. The company’s newest road car benefitted from the entire portfolio of Caterham companies including Caterham Technology & Innovation, Caterham F1 Team, Caterham Composites and Caterham Cars. The company says the new concept hints at a future styling direction, including the new sports car that is being developed in conjunction with Renault, due in 2016.

End of the road for Mercury

Mercury has stood for hot-rodding, performance, style and even feminine appeal during various points in its 72-year history. But ultimately, the failure to stand alone in the Ford Motor Co.'s family of brands spelled its demise. Mercury, a brand founded by company scion Edsel Ford, will be shuttered as Ford concentrates its efforts on the core Ford brand and luxury-level Lincolns.

Nissan moves Europe design chief to U.S., Campbell to retire

Bruce Campbell, Nissan's U.S. design chief, will retire at the end of March after 31 years with the automaker and will be replaced by Alfonso Albaisa, who currently is Nissan's European design chief. This will be the second tour of duty in the United States for Albaisa.