THE new head of Cadillac has committed himself to the brand's future in the UK, despite disappointing sales figures. Michael O'Malley, who took up the role of general manager two months ago, said the UK was part of Cadillac's European strategy which will see its sales both here and on the continent grow through the introduction of new models which have been designed with a European audience in mind. So far this year, Cadillac has sold just 35 cars in the UK, compared with 82 in the year to May 1999.

O'Malley said: 'We are working on details of our new products and are mapping out the potential to grow business in Europe. We are a global brand and we will continue to sell cars in the UK. When people think of Cadillac they think of Hollywood and tail fins - we need to talk to people to tell them where we are going and start to change their opinions. We can compete around the world.'

As part of the planned sales growth, Cadillac has consulted European customers as part of the design process of the new models. O'Malley added: 'The styling of our new products will be more European, although we still need to be true to the Cadillac brand, which is represented by cars such as the Evoq and Imaj.'