PHOENIX Venture Holdings, owner of MG Rover Group, has reached a deal with Tata Engineering to distribute the company's Safari 4x4 and Loadbeta pick-up trucks in the UK and Ireland.

The announcement comes a week after Fleet NewsNet revealed closer links between the two companies would be forged following their agreement to use the Tata Indica as a donor car for a new small Rover.

Upgraded versions of the Safari and Loadbeta will become available through a selection of both MG Rover and Tata dealerships, with distribution arrangements to be finalised in the next few months.

Phoenix Venture Holdings group chief executive Kevin Howe said: 'We are delighted to co-operate with Tata on the distribution of these vehicles. The agreement further broadens the activities and business base of Phoenix Venture Holdings.'