07-30-2008, 09:45 PM
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| Isetta to share Fiat platform
Isetta to share Fiat platform Whether it’s using a Lotus platform for riving Abarth or providing the underpinnings for the new Ford Ka, Fiat has seen no shortage of partnerships recently. If new rumors are to be believed, the Italian automaker might be partnering with BMW for a new small car platform. More specifically, the forthcoming BMW Isetta and Fiat Topolino electric city cars might be born as twins.
By sharing a platform, the Fiat and Bimmer will have similar proportions, but unique surface development and brand-specific design cues. The agreement was reportedly made as part of the same deal that will see a new Mini model share the Alfa Romeo Mi.To’s platform. While the Topolino will be sold in Europe only, the Isetta is most certainly coming to America. The rear-engine vehicle is billed to come Stateside in 2011 or 2012, just in time to meet California’s laws that would require major car manufacturers to produce a certain amount of zero emission vehicles.
Isetta is the result of BMW’s “Project i unit,” which has been working largely independently to develop electric car technology. It’s not know if the Fiat-BMW partnership will be a two-way stream, with the Topolino sharing BMW’s electric technology. It appears Fiat has at least two regular engines planned for the car — one delivering 65 horsepower and the other 105 hp.
Both cars are likely to seat three passengers, including the driver. This should give Isetta the upper hand over Daimler’s Smart ForTwo.   |
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