LexFather

http://www.autocar.co.uk/News/NewsAr...ota-iQ/242803/

Toyota is in talks with BMW about using the Mini Coupe and Roadster platform to future model variants, according to reports from the US.

Although neither company has confirmed the reports, it is claimed that BMW would get use of the next-generation iQ, specifically its interior and platform, in return for Toyota using the Mini platform.

The iQ platform could also be used to underpin a production version of BMW’s micro electric car, rumoured to be called the Isetta.

The concept version of the Mini Coupe was shown off last week and it and its sister Roadster will be on show at the Frankfurt motor show next month. Both models are expected to make production in two to three years time, although BMW has yet to give the green light.

Aston Martin has already arranged a similar deal with Toyota to use the iQ as the basis for its Cygnet micro car.

B Dot

I wonder what Toyota would do with the Mini platform, new Paseo? j/k But this is interesting.

Nextourer

How much smaller is the iQ compared to the MINI? Just wondering why BMW would want an iQ platform (and interior) in exchange for a MINI platform. Does Toyota want to build a better Aygo? or a better Yaris? (smaller, yet more space efficient)

I8ABMR

A fusion of Japanese and German technologies would be great. I like it. I hope this develops into more projects like this in the future

Trexus

This is a good thing. Joint ventures and sharing of technology will benefit the consumers and companies can save money. Maybe BMW can take over GM's share at the NUMMI plant in northern California? C'mon BMW come to California...

DustinV

96SC4

iTrader: (2)

^^^haha i go to a hot rod/classic car show near me almost every week and a guy pulls up in one of those all the time.

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

Is there any other competition for SMART other than the iQ?

It seems like there is a wide open market for someone to step up and play the game. Where is VW, Hyundai, and Honda?

bad co

Dont forget a bunch of other micros that roam around in europe i.e hyundai i20 mitsubishi colt, vw lupo and polo, fiat 500 and panda, merc's a class and audi's upcoming a1

Nextourer

Fair enough