MOTORING NEWS - Aston Martin has announced a trade and investment deal of R8-billion between the United Kingdom and Japan. 

The luxury car brand said last week it would step up its exports to Japan, open a number of new offices next year and expand its dealer network. 

The five-year deal will benefit its plants in St Athan in Vale of Glamorgan and Gaydon in Warwickshire.

British prime minister Theresa May said the investment was vital as Britain prepares to leave the EU.

The announcement was made by the company's president and chief executive officer, Andy Palmer, during his visit to Japan as part of the UK delegation accompanying May. She aims to allay Japan's concerns over Brexit and drum up trade during the visit.

"As we prepare to leave the European Union, it is vital that we build on our existing ties with friends and allies," May said. "Aston Martin is a prime example of the innovative and world leading firms the UK is proud of and I'm delighted they are joining me on this important trade mission."

She said it would help safeguard jobs at the two UK plants and would open "new possibilities for future deals with Japan".

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