Bruno Senna is under no illusions he would have a mountain to climb if suddenly thrown into Formula One this season.

Honda’s president says the Japanese automaker will sell a new, improved and affordable gas-electric hybrid in the US, Japan and Europe starting in early 2009.

Stocks in the US surged today on signs of resilience in the housing market and the US consumer, with falling oil prices giving investors an extra reason to rally. The Dow Jones industrials gained more than 120 points.

JAPANESE stocks fell yesterday, led by companies that outperformed benchmarks last year such as Canon and Honda Motor Co., as investors sought to lock in the benefit of gains before they are eroded.

European car-makers are reporting stronger profits and keeping their aspirations focused on flashier models and new markets, even as US car companies are slashing benefits and jobs amid sagging results and spiralling gas prices.

THE idea that there are companies generating more wealth than Ireland has been debunked by the United Nations.