Mercedes Benz M130 Piston Ring Pagoda 280sl Fintail W113 W110 W111 W114 on 2040-parts.com

Who's Where: GM's new Asian and European design studio appointments

New additions have been made to the design management teams at General Motors, both in Asia and in Europe. Effective today (August 1), Friedhelm Engler begins his new role as Director of Design for the Pan Asian Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), based in Shanghai, China.  He is responsible for all design related activities in the joint venture between General Motors and the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. Group (SAIC).

Cadillac Ciel concept

The Cadillac Ciel concept, a four-seat convertible, has just been revealed at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. "The Ciel is about the romance of the drive," says Clay Dean, global design director of Cadillac. "It emulates the great touring cars seen on the greens at Pebble Beach, but with a modern flair that projects Cadillac's vision for the future." Interior design manager Gael Buzyn says, "Simplicity and lightness ensure nothing distracts from the open driving experience, while the color and materials lend the feeling that the vehicle's environment blends with the surroundings." The four-door Cadillac Ciel concept was developed with a long, low proportion, reminiscent of classic automobiles, while the interior features Italian olive wood, machined aluminum and hand-tipped leather.

Cunningham Corvette battle heads to courts

UPDATED: The battle over ownership of one of the 1960 Chevrolet Corvettes raced at that year's 24 Hours of Le Mans by Briggs Cunningham has moved to the courts in Pennsylvania. The filings—in Cumberland County Court and U.S. District Court in Harrisburg—provide several details about the discovery and ownership of the long-lost car, including the sale price: $75,000.