The London event"s organisers...

The London event"s organisers have asked 40 of the biggest names in motoring - including DaimlerChrysler"s Dieter Zetsche, GM boss Rick Wagoner and Ford chief Bill Ford - to attend a glitzy drinks reception at 10 Downing Street with PM Tony Blair. The date is set for Tuesday 18 July, which just happens to be press day at the UK car expo. It"s hoped the chance to do something usually reserved for visiting heads of state will encourage global chief executives to come to the event.

Meanwhile, the VW Group might be having a change of heart about attending the show. Previously, VW, Audi, Skoda and SEAT had ruled it out on cost grounds. But SEAT has signed up, and the other brands will decide shortly. Subaru might now reconsider, too, while Dodge, Hummer, Mercedes and Morgan have all joined the party.

And Mitsubishi plans to have salesmen on its stand, actively trying to sell cars. Interested customers are usually directed to their local dealer. "This is a first for us, and for the show," said a spokesman.