Mazda is to launch a limited-edition model of its popular MX-5 sportscar at the Chicago Auto Show next week.

The Japanese brand said that only 450 Special Edition variants of the MX-5 will be produced, boasting an upgraded roof and new interior.

Since its launch in 1989, the MX-5 Miata has become the world’s best-selling two-seat roadster and is a popular — and much cheaper — alternative to high-end models from the likes of Porsche and BMW.

Electric car maker Tesla has announced a special edition model of its Roadster sports car, as it prepares for the debut of its new Model S (pictured above).

The brand, which created the world’s first high-performance electric car in the Roadster, will sell just 15 of the Final Edition Roadster models.

Although the specifications of the model haven’t been changed, it is finished in distinctive Atomic Red paint, dark stripes and exclusive anthracite aluminium wheels.

Tesla Motors announced that it is going to stop production of its Roadster electric vehicle (EV) by the end of this year.

The high-speed model, which is built in the UK for Tesla by Lotus, will end production after the 2,500th vehicle is put together, and Tesla CEO Elon Musk told the San Francisco Chronicle that there aren’t many vehicles left.

There are only a “handful” of models left in the US, Musk is reported as saying, with just a month or two to go until the vehicle is totally sold out.

Luxury electric car maker Tesla has sued BBC television program Top Gear after a protracted disagreement over a review of its Roadster sports car.

The California-based firm, which makes the world’s only serially-produced electric supercar, announced legal proceedings against the BBC March 29 claiming libel and malicious falsehood, after a spat which has lasted over two years.

Tesla’s complaint relates to an episode of the show which featured the show’s host Jeremy Clarkson reviewing its Roadster, before saying the car would run out of power after 55 miles, the motor had overheated and the brakes had failed.

A prewar vehicle once used for transporting hotel guests at a Madrid hotel has been named “Best of Show” at the 60th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

The 1933 Delage D8S De Villars Roadster was named the top car out of the 250 collector cars from 14 countries that were showcased on the Pebble Beach Golf Course this past weekend.

As well as being used to transport guests of the Gran Hotel Velasquez in Madrid, Spain, the 1933 Delage also made an appearance at the 1933 Salon de Paris.

Luxury watch brand TAG Heuer has unveiled a new concept watch for its specially designed Tesla Roadster March 18 – and announced plans for a world tour.

To celebrate its 150th anniversary, Tag Heuer will send the Tesla Roadster around the world, leading a travelling exhibition of the brands timepieces.

At the centerpiece of the car’s console will be the Grand Carrera Pendulum, a 2010 concept watch specially designed to fit in the Roadster that was also launched at the event.

The all-electric Roadster, unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, will travel some 37,000 miles — the first round-the-world tour by a zero emission GT car.