Panda Scores Sponsorship From Chinese Auto

Tai Shan may not be a household name, but WaPo reports that the National Zoo panda has scored what some athletes and stars strive for their entire lives: a corporate sponsorship.

Sichuan Auto Industry Group agreed to pay a million yuan, or about $150,000, to "adopt" the panda bear for life.

According to company spokespeople, the company's interest is somehow tied to the automaker's efforts to develop an electric car for sale in the United States. The company will foot the bill for Tai Shan's food, medical care and other daily expenses which company officials estimate will amount to an annual tab of $90k.