GEELY, VOLVO TO ATTACK AUDI, MINI

Chinese car giant Geely might very soon work with Volvo in a new jointly-developed model to rival Audi’s A1 and BMW’s MINI. According to European media reports the only way this could become a feasible project would be if the Swedish manufacturer ties up with Geely to supply a power plant for the new compact.

Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby was quoted as saying Volvo was considering adding a rival to the MINI and A1, but would need a partner to share the costs, as well as a smaller engine, which would probably be manufactured in conjunction with Volvo’s parent company, Zhejiang Geely of China.

According to Jacoby buyers of premium cars are prepared to pay more for smaller cars as they “no longer define luxury based on the size of the car or the number of cylinders”.

Volvo’s focus for the immediate future will be on renewing the company’s core ranges such as the 60, 80/90 and SUV ranges. Niche models, sporty versions of current models and a new model to rival the MINI or A1 might only follow much later.

STORY BY GEELY