Gasgoo.com (Shanghai October 8) - Mercedes-Benz Japan President Nicholas Speeks will assume Klaus Maier's joint roles of president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz China, auto.sina.com.cn reported today, citing a DPA story. Mercedes-Benz Spokesman Jörg Howe denied claims that the decision was made due to supposedly poor sales by the manufacturer's Chinese branch. The change is part of normal periodic restructuring, Mr. Howe stated.