MG Rover rumors continue to swirl, including possible Smart link

More rumors this day about the fortunes of MG Rover. Nanjing Automobile, the Chinese carmaker who know controls the fallen British marque’s destiny, says it is unlikely to sell the brand to English businessman David James, following on the heels of reports by a number of British media outlets that have stated his interest therein.

James’ Kimber group is apparently keen on building two-seaters using MG Rover’s nameplate, but move production away from Longbridge, England. Word on the street is that James has been looking to build a small sporting piece based on the Smart Roadster (the luminous, if overpriced Lilliputian racer ceased production in November), but a deal isn’t close at hand, particularly as Nanjing is reportedly still planning on resuming Longbridge assembly.

[Source: Shanghai Daily via China Economic Net]