HardShoulder

News from the world of motors

News from the world of motors

MAZDA DEBUT: Mazda is to debut of its new six-seater concept, dubbed the MX-Flexa and likely to be its latest entry in the people carrier market. The unveiling will take place at next month's Geneva motor show, which will also see the European premier of its MX-Micro Sport concept.

Helmut Werner, former chairman of Mercedes-Benz AG, who was credited with bringing a vitality to the Mercedes brand, died over the weekend. Werner (67) left the company in January 1997 after losing a boardroom battle with Juergen Schrempp, now chief executive of DaimlerChrysler.

Werner had served as chairman of tyre firm Continental, before joining Mercedes-Benz in 1987, heading up the commercial vehicle division. Six years later, he was named chief executive of Mercedes-Benz.