It's an interesting spin on the ever-evolving globalization of the auto industry. In China, where until recently cars have been produced and sold at a blistering pace, Beijing Automotive Works is fighting for its survival. Long focused on making cars for foreign brands, the company's own brand has faltered in its own country.

Now, with access to Saab technology that it acquired from GM last year, and under the direction of Wang Dazong, a Chinese-born president who used to work for GM, Beijing Auto is making a concerted effort to be competitive. It faces an uphill battle; the government-owned firm risks being shut down under China's plan to consolidate its auto industry into eight large groups, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Can Saab, now putting its brand on select models (such as the 9-5, above) made by Beijing Auto, help propel the struggling automaker's brand on the mainland? It won't be easy, but Wang is hopeful.Continue reading...

Alibaba develops China search engine with Microsoft as challenger to Baidu.

Apple is in talks to bring the iPhone to India, and will sell the iPad at Wal-Mart.

AT&T's U-verse TV is coming to Microsoft’s Xbox 360.

Bank of America and other mortgage lenders face lawsuits from up to 40 state attorneys general.

Beijing Auto hopes to reinvigorate brand with $2.7 billion marketing push, as China car sales cool down.

Blockbuster begins search for a new CEO.

Bloomberg LP plans a data service catering to U.S. government.

Bloomingdale's, Macy's, J.C. Penney and other retailers go beyond discounts (incl. BOGO) to compete.Continue reading...

Posting will be light on brandchannel today for the US holiday. Tune in tomorrow for all of Abe Sauer's Black Friday coverage!

Beijing Auto may purchase Saab to finally gain access to foreign technology. [WSJ]

Toyota plans to recall 4 million vehicles with faulty gas pedals. [NY Times]

GM will not close Opel plants in Germany. [NY Times]

France Telecom will merge Sunrise and Orange Switzerland to challenge Swisscom. [NY Times]

Tesco to sell iPhone before Christmas in UK, launching price war. [Telegraph]

Eschewing "Black Friday," luxury retailers offer deals online. [NY Times]

"Cyber Monday" loses steam. [LA Times]

(More headlines:Tiffany, GE's NBC deal, Porsche losses.)Continue reading...