McLaren managing director on leave, not expected in Geneva

McLaren Automotive's U.S.-born managing director, Antony Sheriff, is expected to be absent from the launch of the P1 hypercar at Geneva next week because he is on extended leave from the company. No reason for Sheriff's absence has been given, although McLaren is at pains to point out that he is “still employed as McLaren Automotive's managing director.” Rumors were circulating about Sheriff's absence from Woking in January, but company spokesmen back then stressed that he was still employed by McLaren and would unveil the P1 at Geneva. Despite those assurances, sources had reported earlier in the year that Sheriff “hadn't been seen in his office” for some days.

Charity calls for parking on pavements ban

Campaigners are calling for a change in the law that would ban vehicles from parking on pavements. The Guide Dogs charity has branded drivers that block the pavement “inconsiderate and dangerous”, with seven out of 10 people backing restrictions that would keep the footpath clear for pedestrians. Parking wardens given ‘illegal’ bonus targets Driverless cars on UK pavements by 2015 Speaking to the BBC, Guide Dogs’ campaigns manager James White: “It can be frightening for anyone who is forced to step into a road because the pavement is blocked by a van, car or other badly parked vehicle.

IAAD exhibition - 'The car that does not exist'

The work of Transportation Design students at the Institute of Applied Arts and Design - Turin, will be shown in an exhibition covering the study and planning of a concept car for Fiat, and a new sedan for Honda. Titled 'The car that does not exist', the exhibition will open on Monday 28th June at the Automobile Museum of Turin (press 2pm, public 6pm) and runs until 2nd September. In addition to the students projects, the exhibition includes historic vehicles and prototypes from both brands.