Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models

[cawimmer430]

LS and S-Class? 


Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models



According to a report from Auto Motor und Sport, Toyota is considering a partnership with Daimler to build Mercedes-Benz' A- and B-Class sub-compacts on the Japanese automaker's MC platform. The idea is to maximize the efficiency and output of Toyota's European plants, and could also include sharing development costs on each brand's next generation flagships: the Lexus LS and Mercedes S-Class. Daimler has dismissed the report as "speculation," while a Toyota Motor Europe spokesman towed the company line, only saying "It's part of our normal business practice that we regularly talk to other carmakers but there are no specific projects planned at the moment."


Link: http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/

[NomisR]

What's a compact full size model? 

[Madman]

That sound you just heard was Wimmer's head exploding! 


Cheers,
Madman of the People

[Submariner]

Sorry, Submariner does NOT approve.

[93JC]

Oh, I don't know. I don't see a problem sharing parts between the Toyota's smaller cars and the A & B-classes. I mean, it's not as though the Benzes are paragons of design.

[Tave]

What's a compact full size model? 

Exactly what I thought when I read the title.


But I don't get it: this is internet news. They don't have to pay for the wire, so why use that tomfoolery to save yourself a few type-spaces?

[cozmik]

I'm not that surprised that they may be considering this. Given the current state of the auto world, and the fact that any significant recovery is probably still a ways off, it makes sense to start sharing the basic development costs of platforms. I'm surprised we haven't seen more of this already.

[mzziaz]

 

That sound you just heard was Wimmer's head exploding! 


Cheers,
Madman of the People