Mercedes will lead joint SUV development with Infiniti

Earlier this year there were news about Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti discussing a joint-venture for making SUVs. The two companies had an agreement to work together on a small platform for compact cars. The second model under joint development could be an SUV. Daimler’s chief has said they will take lead in developing any new cars shared with Infiniti based on the three pointed star’s MFA platform.

Nissan’s luxury brand division, Infiniti, will develop its new crossover based on the Q30 concept shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, the vehicle will be underpinned by the same platform that forms base for the new A-Class, B-Class and the CLA.

“We would take the lead on developing any compact car. It is our platform,” added Zetsche.

It has been a new trend globally with more and more manufacturers joining hands to share platforms and technology. BMW is another German company that tied-up with Japanese car major Toyota last year and the companies are working on a joint platform for a sportscar. 

Source: Autocar India