Fiat, Mazda looking to expand collaboration? - LatestCarsWallpapers.com

Back in May, the automakers announced plans for an alliance that would give Fiat's Alfa Romeo brand access to Mazda's next-generation MX-5 Miata platform. According to a Wards Auto report, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne and Mazda CEO Takashi Yamanouchi both say that the roadster program should move forward as planned following a feasibility study, setting the stage for a more extensive relationship between the automakers in the future.

Yamanouchi stated that all possibilities were being discussed in talks with Fiat, including sharing Mazda's SkyActiv technologies "as long as it benefits the Mazda brand." SkyActiv is Mazda's family of fuel-efficiency-boosting engine, transmission and chassis technologies.

For his part, Marchionne said that Fiat would be open to considering an equity partnership with Mazda should Ford decide to fully divest its remaining 2.11 percent stake in the Japanese automaker.

Such a relationship would allow Fiat to expand its weak presence in Asia/Pacific region, while flagging Mazda would likely be open to a new equity partner as its tie-up with Ford continues to wind down.

"Everything is possible," Marchionne told Wards. "We've just started. We've signed the deal; we've visited the plants. Let's take it one day at a time. We're open to any solutions that lessen capital (outlays)."

In the past, Fiat has also signaled that it would be willing to build Mazda vehicles in its underutilized Fiat and Chrysler factories around the globe. If implemented, this plan would let Fiat take advantage of its underutilized production facilities, while Mazda could limit its exposure to the robust yen that has been severely diminishing its profits in recent years.
Source: Leftlanenews

Posted in: Auto News,Automobile News,Cars News,Luxury Cars,Sexy Cars