BMW still planning on co-developing and sharing next Mini platform

BMW is planning to co-develop and share the next-generation Mini platform with another automaker.

“The door is still open,” said Wolfgang Armbrecht, Mini’s vice president of brand management. “Today in the car business, you have to create fascinating cars. But, on the other hand, you have to be realistic as far as economics are concerned.”

PSA / Peugeot-Citroen SA currently supplies Mini with a 1.6L gasoline engine.

BMW Group CEO Norbert Reithofer said last March that the company ended discussions to co-develop and share the next-generation platform with Alfa Romeo.

“After intensive examination, we have determined that cooperation involving the Mini and Alfa Romeo brands with regard to a possible common platform doesn’t make any sense,” Reithofer said. “Even in the future, a Mini has to drive like a Mini.”

– By: Kap Shah

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)