Next generation A-Class might share MINI platform
Autobild magazine reports what is the opposite of a previous statement by DaimlerChrysler saying there are no plans for any further JV development with BMW other than the current hybrid drivetrain cooperation.
It seems that the end of July is the deadline for a decision on whether the next generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class will be built on BMW’s front wheel drive MINI platform, a story picked up by Reuters earlier this month.
BMW has been reportedly looking for a partner to use it’s MINI platform so that economies of scale can be brought down, as the MINI Cooper, Cooper S and the MINI One are the only cars that currently use that platform.
Previously some have been saying that if BMW gets a hold of Volvo, the next generation C30/S40/V50/C70 cars could use a MINI-derived platform. But I really don’t see why BMW and PSA Peugeot Citroen does not have a platform sharing collaboration, seeing as they are already sharing the same inline-4 engine for both Peugeot cars and the new R56 MINI.
BMW has to ensure it’s Oxford plant runs at a certain level of capacity at all times otherwise MINI will start to become a money-bleeding marque, despite it’s sales success because of high cost.
Anyway, the MINI Production Triangle which includes the Oxford, Hams Hall, and Swindon plants is very interesting. Check out my MINI Production Triangle story.
Related Posts:
BMW wants to increase cooperation with Benz
Mercedes Benz not interested in futher BMW JV
MINI Production Triangle and Oxford plant tour
July 12, 2007 @ 7:33 am
just asking..
if they share the same platform, is it mean the Benz & BMW also having technologies transfer too?
July 12, 2007 @ 10:04 am
Emm.. sharing platform mainly is just the body of the car.. technology can be implanted differently just like P1 having Wira, Saga, perdana from Mitsu, but engine modified a bit.. Anywayz i dont think BMW or Merc will so generous to share both technology, since BMW is leading the way..
July 12, 2007 @ 10:52 am
IMHO, platform means those basic structure of the chassis itself, those “bones” structure…. suspension might included and might not(absorber might be changed)… with minimal panels… maybe those exterior panel are not included, those basic such as be bottom ones are included…. braking units are not included but the basic layout of the braking system should be there already, just install a new sets and its ready to go… those jig and fiture can be shared and these are very expensive tool for automakers….. especially those jigs for robot welders…. juz my 2cents!
July 12, 2007 @ 1:28 pm
maybe they are feeling the pressure from the new Fiat 500.
July 12, 2007 @ 2:37 pm
what? Mini have gone to diesel……..and cheaper too.
July 12, 2007 @ 9:00 pm
a sign of cross platform, cheaper production cost
July 12, 2007 @ 9:46 pm
MB sesat .
July 13, 2007 @ 7:44 am
JUst removed the bagde of BMW and Put the BENZ mark on it, Cheapest way to do so……by the way.
July 13, 2007 @ 6:43 pm
PSA’s FF platform is better than BMW’s so there’s no need to share platform…