Mazda and Fiat join forces to develop a new roadster

Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) and Fiat Group Automobiles SpA (Fiat) have signed a memorandum of agreement unenforceable on the development and production of a new roadster for the Mazda and Alfa Romeo brands on the basis of architecture rear wheel drive Mazda MX-5 new generation.

The draft provides that Mazda and Fiat shall develop lightweight roadster has two completely separate propulsion that will stand by their design. The Mazda and Alfa Romeo models will both animes with a clean engine each brand.

The project was developed on the premise that the two vehicles would be produced in the Mazda plant in Hiroshima, Japan, and the production of Alfa Romeo model starting in 2015.

"The creation of technological alliances and product development is one of the goals of Mazda group and this announcement regarding the agreement with Fiat password represents an important first step in this direction. It is particularly gratifying to work with such a prestigious brand Alfa Romeo on a new derivative of the MX-5 roadster new generation, legendary model of the Mazda range considered as the largest roadster of all time in terms of sales, " Takashi Yamanouchi stated, Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of Mazda.

"The agreement goes attests clearly our commitment to Alfa Romeo and our determination to elevate the status of the global brand. Our partnership with Mazda will allow us to work with the undisputed leader in compact vehicles propulsion has to offer a seductive roadster as the Elegant, enrolling in line with the Alfa Romeo tradition. We look forward to this collaboration with Mazda and hope to establish a profitable and sustainable relationship, "stated Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat.

The final agreement should be signed in the second half of 2012.

Mazda and Fiat have also agreed to consider further opportunities for cooperation in Europe.

Source: Mazda Europe