Autocar confidential: Mercedes-AMG GT R, Porsche Panamera shooting brake and more

This week's gossip from the automotive industry has news of Vauxhall's desire to increase its private sales, Mercedes-AMG GT R production numbers, the shooting brake Porsche Panamera's look and Mahindra's ambitions to be an electric leader.

Vauxhall won't follow Ford

Vauxhall is looking to move away from the rental market and increase its private sales, but it has no intention of following Ford in attempting to chase buyers of prestige cars by creating its own version of the Vignale brand, according to an insider. “We’re happy about being in the mainstream and will continue to be there,” said the source.

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AMG GT R exclusivity

Mercedes has hinted that production of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R could be limited to just 2000 units, when asked about build numbers at the car’s recent launch. The manufacturer expects most GT Rs to spend almost all of their life on track, despite the fact that the car is road legal.

Read more: Mercedes-AMG GT R revealed

Porsche Panamera shooting brake

Porsche Chief executive Oliver Blume has spoken about his expectations for the upcoming second bodystyle of the Porsche Panamera, a shooting brake. “It will have a very sharp design,” he said. “It will be the first bodystyle that we will offer in this segment. The usability of the car will be even higher than the standard Panamera due to the space, and we will also offer five seats. It might be another argument for customers to move into this segment.” The new model is expected late next year.

Read more: 2017 Porsche Panamera Shooting Brake starts testing

Mahindra's electric ambitions

Mahindra UK CEO Steve Parkinson prefers not to make predictions for sales of the firm’s new e2o electric car, but he expects the new battery-powered city car to be a success. “We know we have a big job ahead establishing the brand and that it will take time,” he said. “But we firmly believe we can be one of the big players in the electric car market.”

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