A round-up of today's other stories in brief...
3-Series GT on the way
As BMW prepares for the arrival of its new 3-Series, the firm is also preparing a derivative of the model range that will be akin to its current 5-Series GT. The new car will adopt a two-tier rear hatch format and will come with either rear-wheel drive or the firm’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
It will share the aggressive new look that’s being implemented across BMW’s line-up and takes its cue from the recently launched 5 Series.
Designers have stressed the car’s coupé characteristics just as they did with the X6 and new 5-series GT. As expected, we see extremely short overhangs, pumped fenders and sporty alloy wheels. It will be presented at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, ahead of the new 3-Series saloon that’s due to arrive in 2012.
Saab in funding talks
Saab and its owner, Spyker, are in talks “with several parties” to secure funding to rescue the Swedish carmaker from its latest financial problems, which have halted production because suppliers are withholding parts.
“The additional liquidity that Spyker and Saab Automobile expect to secure is required to start up production” that would enable the Swedish brand to introduce the 9-4X crossover model and 9-5 SportCombi in coming months, Spyker said.
Saab suspended manufacturing on March 29th after component makers stopped deliveries and demanded payment. CEO Jan-Aake Jonsson said that the carmaker’s liquidity “became more strained” during the second half of the first quarter but declined to give details. (Bloomberg)
A-Class concept expected
Mercedes is set to unveil a concept that previews its radically overhauled next-generation A-Class, due for launch next year.
The concept (left), due to be revealed next week in Shanghai, will showcase the new shape of the entry-level Mercedes, which is aimed to take on the likes of the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and VW Golf. It will be a five-seater and carries more sculpted lines and a prominent front grille, similar in style to the SLK roadster.
The new A-Class is based on a platform that will form the basis of up to five new models, including a five- door crossover that will replace the current B Class.