REPORT: Peugeot also wants ties with BMW that go beyond engines and platforms
A couple of years ago, BMW said it wanted out of the joint engine game with Peugeot. Today, not only are the two companies still sharing powerplants – the PSA engines that go in the Mini and Pugs like the 207 – but BMW's head has recently stated that the automaker is considering sharing small car platforms with PSA. To that, PSA head Phillipe Varin has gone a step further, saying he'd also like to extend the agreement to things like purchasing, transmissions, and HVAC units.
The quest for Peugeot is to find a way to remain independent to continue to make money doing it. The French automaker expects an operating loss of up to €1.5 billion ($2.25B U.S.) this year, which is less than expected. But the company foresees a return to black next year, and part of the strategy for that would be lowering costs through tie-ups, such as its deal to sell rebranded Mitsubishi i-Mievs.
Nevertheless, it will be BMW that needs to see sense in a stronger PSA union. Items like HVAC units and transmissions – when they work – are anonymous; no one knows or really cares where they come from. As for powertrains, the German firm has spoken before of wanting to lower development costs, especially in the area of small engine development which could help it with its numerous small car initiatives.
[Source: Automotive News – sub. req'd.]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Sea Urchin 8:08PM (10/27/2009)
Why can't they sell THIS car in USA. It is gorgeous.
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fmwso 3:57AM (10/28/2009)
I've seen these in South America and it does look good. Wouldn't mind to have one of these in my garage.
recrudesce 6:30AM (10/28/2009)
Peugeots fall apart - I'm sure BMW owners wouldn't want that to happen to them as well.
In my opinion the new Peugeots are some of the ugliest cars on the road...
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Andrew 12:54PM (10/28/2009)
Are you even European? Those small Peugeots are quite sturdy.
And they're not made for Americans, as a European I quite like them.
Who cares what non-Europeans feel about a car not made for them?!
recrudesce 2:02PM (10/28/2009)
hah, yes mate, i'm in the UK and have had NUMEROUS Peugeots and know a lot of people who have had quite serious problems with them.
a friend of mine bought a brand new 307CC and the rear window dropped out on the motorway - just as one example. the 207 (and the MINI as it shares the same engine) experience some interesting engine issues too :P
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