Daimler strikes deal with Renault/Nissan to produce next Smart for 2014

After failing to strike a deal with BMW and Mini along with Peugeot and Citroen, Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche has finally struck a deal with Renault/Nissan to produce the next-generation of Smart minicars by 2014. According to Automobile, both plan on producing different derivatives under the Renault/Nissan and Smart brands.

The Smart will retain its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive concept under both brands, with the shape and colors of the PVC body panels acting as differentiating features. Sources say that Renault will play the key role in engineering, purchasing and production.

The plan between the two include as many as four models including the two-seat ForTwo coupe and convertible, a new four-seat ForFour and a possible ForMore minivan. The ForMore minivan will feature a higher roofline and sliding doors.

– By: Kap Shah

Source: Automobile