Aston Martin and Mercedes Benz have been exploring the possibility of working together to leverage the strength of one another. With volumes shrinking at the very high end of the automobile sector it makes sense for the top players to collaborate to keep the ultra luxury models commercially viable. There is news now that the two have signed a firm agreement to collaborate to the mutual benefit of both companies.
The tie up will allow Aston Martin an access to the GL platform from Mercedes to build their next Lagonda SUV on. This SUV should be priced in the range of $250,000. Aston will also get access to Mercedes engine technology. In fact they are interested in the new twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 for the new Lagonda. The terms of agreement will see Aston develop the next generation Maybach models on the Mercedes S Class chassis. Mercedes is confident about the economic revival and the increasing demand from China to keep the luxe model viable.
The agreement has a long term view with the co-operation increasing where Aston Martin might develop a Lagonda on the S Class chassis to be positioned against Rolls Royce in the $350,000 price bracket. Aston Martin is using their VH architecture for all of their models in production and they might replace it with the SLS chassis. The Frankfurt Auto Show, this fall will see the first Maybach developed by Aston Martin.
Via: autoguide
