SAIC"s rival Chinese...

SAIC"s rival Chinese firm Nanjing owns the rights to the MG badge and looks set to win the race to return to the UK.

That"s because, unlike with Roewe, the first MG models will be assembled in Britain using some parts shipped in from China. A mildly revised version of the TF roadster is expected to go on sale in the next few months.

Boasting very strong support from loyal British buyers, Nanjing has restarted a scaled-down production facility at the old Longbridge site. The small plant will employ around 250 workers, who will supply cars to a network of 90 dealers located across the UK. The manufacturer also owns the rights to the plans and designs for the MG ZR and ZT, and it is expected that revised versions of these sporty machines will eventually join the rejuvenated line-up.