The image of made-in-China products has taken some negative hits in recent years, following scandals involving lead paint in toys and tainted food products.

VOA: standard.2010.01.11

Many countries have gone to great lengths, spending huge sums to boost their image in China.

VOA: standard.2010.05.02

And on the heritage front, Ford hopes to capitalize on what it says is an actual brand image in China, based in part on TV images of U.S. presidential limousines through the years as well as the Lincoln Continental that former President Richard Nixon brought with him on his historic visit to China in 1972.

FORBES: Lincoln, Cadillac Bet on U.S. Revival -- And China Up Sleeve

Since returning from China another image has begun to recur alongside the Beijing water calligrapher.

BBC: China's changing face

Admirers say Yao has done more for improving China's image overseas than any modern-day politician or diplomat.

CNN: Yao Ming foot injury could 'end career'