William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

May 7, 2012

From the Twilight Zone files: Reuters reports that BMW is in talks with Hyundai about jointly developing engines.

"The talks are at early stages," a source told Reuters.

Another source said the two companies had discussed a comprehensive alliance, which included developing an engine and sharing development costs equally.

German industry publication Automobil Produktion reported on Thursday that Hyundai Motor Group chairman Chung Mong-koo's son and heir apparent, Chung Eui-sun met with BMW officials to talk about this.

BMW currently has partnerships with Peugeot, Toyota, and GM.

"Further co-operation partners are currently not foreseen," BMW chief executive Norbert Reithofer said to reporters.

Source: Reuters

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A network of alliances seems to be the way forward... R&D is getting expensive and cash is a rare commodity these days...

This so totally makes sense. Especially with alternative energy, they need to spread the cost around and make sure they are ready for changes to what fuel powers these engines.

I could see this more for the Mini engines and probably small diesels for Europe. BMW has the straight six covered, they each have a good V8. Hybrid or fuel cell and other alternatives to gasoline I think what the partnership owuld be used for.

To me this is an embarrassment for the BMW name. The two brands are like polar opposites, perceptibly for me. It is amazing that BMW thinks Hyundai has something to offer.

To me this is an embarrassment for the BMW name. The two brands are like polar opposites, perceptibly for me. It is amazing that BMW thinks Hyundai has something to offer.

Desperate times call for desperate measures? Remember, BMW is one of the last independents...