Today’s headline quote is from “Down and out in London and Paris”, George Orwell’s account of his experiences as a gentleman of the road. The book makes clear how clothes do indeed make the man, with the importance of making oneself presentable when in straightened circumstances a matter of basic survival. The automotive industry is a prime example of the once prosperous, now fallen on hard times, and indeed many of the manufacturers’ marques are being refreshed – Citroen in recent months, and Vauxhall, Opel, Fiat, Lancia, Volvo, Chrysler, Mercedes and a few others over the past year and a half, some more successfully than others. It would be naïve to think re-design alone will reverse economic fortunes, but against a crisis of confidence such re-branding, at least offers a positive face. Additionally, compared to the money required to develop new cars, a little brand tweaking is actually not such a ridiculous investment, if it is going to make for a more appealing livery. When all you have are the clothes you stand up in, looking the part is more than a cosmetic exercise. Now, if GM can just slip its new nickname “Government Motors” it will be off to a better new beginning.