There we were, trying desperately to get some footage for CMTV of the inside of Merc's magnificent new concept tractor--the Actros Space-Max---as part of our IAA Hanover truck show webcast. Only it seems the world and his wife want to get in the damn thing at the same time too and two's company, eight's definitely a crowd scene with extras, especially when you've got a cameraman, and yours truly in there all wired up with a mike trying to do a bit to camera.

In desperation we get our director Simon to act as bouncer and stop anyone from getting in which he does with commendable vigour. Just as he's about to climb in himself I spot a rather distinguished gentlemen with a large flowing moustache attempting to beat him to it. Only Simon has spied him first and places his hand across his chest saying rather firmly: "Sorry we're filming." Out of the corner of my eye I notice our minder from Mercedes going a whiter shade of pale and I suddenly realise who it is that's trying to enter into the Super-Max......."Errr it's OK Simon" I say, "Let him in....no it's fine.....no really, no PLEASE let him in......" Somewhat reluctantly Simon relents and up into the truck climbs Dr Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board of DaimlerChrysler (and, for the record, one of Time magazine's "100 most influential people.") Talk about an embarrassing moment.....However, to his great credit he seems completely non-plussed and while he looks around we exchange pleasantries before he climbs back out again to whisked off to another part of the stand.

When we finally have the shot all done and dusted I offer up a small explanation to our bemused director. "Sorry Simon, but I thought it only right to let him into the truck.....after all, in a manner of speaking you could say that he owns it...."