THE Government is looking to improve car market innovation and competitiveness with the launch of The Automotive Industry Innovation and Growth Team. It will be chaired by Sir Ian Gibson, senior vice-president of Nissan Motor Company, who has stepped down from most of his responsibilities at the Japanese manufacturer as a result of his new duties.

Gibson's move also comes in the light of further changes at the top of the company sparked by the alliance with Renault. Members of the AIGT will include senior industrialists from the automotive sector, one or two industrialists from related sectors, an academic expert and Government officials. Names will be announced in the next few weeks.