HPheaven Home
   

Motorsports News


Archives




 

Back to May 2012 Motorsports News Archive

28-05-2012 at 07:00: Fiat and Mazda Announce Co-operation

Fiat Group Automobiles S.p.A. (Fiat) and Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development and manufacturing of a new roadster for the Mazda and Alfa Romeo marques based on Mazda’s next-generation MX-5 rear-wheel-drive architecture.

The study calls for both Fiat and Mazda to develop two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific light weight, roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive. The Alfa Romeo and Mazda variants will each be powered by specific proprietary engines unique to each brand.

The project assumption is that both vehicles will be manufactured at Mazda’s Hiroshima, Japan, plant with production for Alfa Romeo envisaged starting in 2015.

“Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction”, said Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO.

“It is especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognized as the best-selling roadster of all time.”

The Final Agreement is expected be signed in the second-half of 2012.

“This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand”, said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne.

“By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognized leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition. We are appreciative of this collaboration with Mazda and look forward to maintaining a fruitful and continuous relationship.”

Fiat and Mazda have also agreed to discuss further opportunities for co-operation in Europe.

See the original post...

^ Back to top ^


 
Login
Username or Email:

Password:



Sign Up
Forgot my password!
   

 

Copyright © All Vic Pty. Ltd. 2007-2024

Terms of Use

Home | Features | Records | Online Store | Media | Careers | Contact Us