Alfa Romeo Coming to a MINI Mart Near You!
It turns out that Fiat and BMW's axis of platform-sharing may help facilitate Alfa's stateside arrival. Automotive News [sub] reports that the Fiat version of the automakers' joint agreement states that "as part of possible cooperation, BMW Group will provide Fiat Group Automobiles with support in launching the Alfa Romeo brand in the North American market." And really, it's perfect. BMW already has a chain of boutique dealers in the more "sophisticated" American markets: MINI. And sure enough, Fiat spokesfolk tell AN "Mini U.S. dealers would have the possibility to also sell Alfa Romeo cars." Official details of the agreement have not been publicized, nor has BMW officially commented on MINI becoming a multi-brand retailer. Still, it's hard to think of too many downsides. MINI stores are already located in the markets that will be interested in Alfas, and the idea of an 8C Competizione gracing a MINI showroom is hardly the stuff of MINI salesman nightmares. Though the two brand's FWD offerings may not be as coordinated as they'd like, the platform-sharing plans mean that the two brands could grow around each other. Besides, a MINI-Alfa dealer would hearken back to the good old days of "import specialty dealers." Only without the horrendous products and service support. We hope.
More by Edward Niedermeyer
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it would be odd if they didnt use the existing dealer network - it seems to me that they (the current network) might like a few new models to sell. Also, they might sell the new 500, at least in Abareth drag.
Since it is an essentially new brand coming to America why not avoid the dealer francise laws and set up Fiat-owned sales outlets? Wouldn't this help them leap-frog the competition that are still tied to antiquated sales channels? Would it be legal?
Just wondering if anyone remembers what happened the last time Germans and Italians got together? And, I am not talking about when my parents conceived me.
Just wondering if anyone remembers what happened the last time Germans and Italians got together? Almost 60 yrs ago, when Fuhrer chummed up with Generalissimo Mussolini. Hope history won't repeat itself I mean the fallout. Perhaps we don't see the full picture, or us seeing GM Merge with Ford or Chrysler. Kind of unlikely it will fly. Or haven't had enuf with the Engrish patient need an Italian patient badly. why not avoid the dealer francise laws and set up Fiat-owned sales outlets? Wouldn’t this help them leap-frog the competition that are still tied to antiquated sales channels? Would it be legal? Anybody wth hard earned money that invested few Mil to open up a car dealsership wants some assurance thats is gong to be a long time of support but not good times. The ones who made $$ real quick not necessary legal will worry u even more as they have Uzzi and AK 47 on both hands.