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Alfa Spider gets new legs and moves to Japan

Alfa Spider
Alfa Spider: Back of Italian production as work shifts to Japan

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24 May 2012

 

Alfa Spider: Back of Italian production as work shifts to Japan by 2015

Author:

ROBIN ROBERTS

The next Alfa Spider will be built in Japan from 2015.

This dramatic change has come about as a result of a JV between parent Fiat and Mazda, who will share the platform of their next generation MX-5 with the Italian sporting brand. The study calls for both Mazda and Fiat to develop two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific light weight, roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive. The Mazda and Alfa Romeo variants will each be powered by specific proprietary engines unique to each brand. The project assumption is that both vehicles will be manufactured at Mazda’s Hiroshima, Japan, plant with production for Alfa Romeo envisaged starting in 2015.

“Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction. It is especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognized as the best-selling roadster of all time.” said Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO.

“This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand. By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognized leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition. We are appreciative of this collaboration with Mazda and look forward to maintaining a fruitful and continuous relationship.” said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne.

 Keep up to date with the world of cars in our business car news section and read our company car adviceto make sure you are doing the right thing.

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