Volkswagen says the Concept BlueSport will make it into production if other marques in the group such as Audi and SEAT want it to, according to a senior Volkswagen executive. He says for economies of scale, the investment for the car needs to be shared between at least three different brands.
There is word that an Audi version is already ready (an Audi R4?), and such a roadster would fit into the SEAT brand image. Our graphics artist Theophilus Chin has already whipped up a SEAT version for us, depicted in this story. Porsche is also a suggested brand, as something like this could be positioned as an entry level model that could also reduce the company’s overall CO2 emissions levels, but when queries Porsche executives denied to comment.
Porsche also has this philosophy where an entry level Porsche or someone’s “first Porsche” is not a low-end model, but rather a hand-me-down or a used Porsche, in order not to compromise brand qualities. But I say that has long gone with models like the Cayenne. Look after the jump for more angles of the SEAT BlueSport.
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Fiat S.p.A today confirmed that it has signed a “a non-binding term sheet to establish a global strategic alliance” with Chrysler and Chrysler’s majority shareholder Cerberus Capital Management. Initial details of the alliance have been revealed. It includes Fiat taking up a 35% stake in the American automaker as well as allowing Chrysler to use “competitive and fuel-efficient” vehicle platforms, components and powertrains to be produced at Chrysler manufacturing bases.
Fiat will also allow Chrysler access to its distribution network in areas that are key for growth, and you could probably assume Chrysler would be the way for Alfa Romeo to get back into the American market. The word is that the Italian company plans to increase this 35% up to 55% over time. Fiat will also assist Chrysler with the viability plan it needs to support to the U.S. Treasury. And apparently the 35% deal does not involve any money. In return for the platforms and management consultancy help with restructuring, 35% of Chrysler will be handed over to Fiat for free.




