Last week at the Guangzhou auto show, Geely Auto launched its small car Panda and other two new models code-named FC-2, FC-3, which will go on sale in June 2009. In addition to these economical cars, Geely is making its foray into the luxury sedan segment, and will launch its first premium sedan model nicknamed "small Rolls-Royce" by 2011, said xinhuanet.com today.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today announced that Graham Lenden (41) will join the company as the new Head of Marketing. He will assume his position at Rolls-Royce later this month, replacing Paul Ferraiolo, who was recently appointed President of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars North America.

Rolls-Royce announced today a further stage in the Group’s continuing programme aimed at improving efficiency and competitiveness. Rolls-Royce is entering into discussions with employees and their representatives with a view to improving productivity by reducing by up to 2,300 the number of managerial, professional and clerical staff working in the business.

The world's second largest maker of aircraft engines, Rolls-Royce, plans to open a plant in Virginia to test and assemble engines for midsize jets.