Rumour: Mercedes-Benz may start using BMW engines in its cars
Mercedes-Benz and BMW, despite their long-standing rivalry, are discussing possible co-operation in the field of powertrains. According to Manager Magazin, Mercedes is considering purchasing four-cylinder engines from BMW. The first cars with such motors may appear already in 2027.
Here's What We Know
The potential collaboration involves BMW supplying BMW with a new generation of petrol engines for use in the Mercedes CLA, GLA, GLB, C-Class, E-Class and GLC models, as well as the small G-Class, which is about to premiere. The agreement between the rival companies is being positioned as a strategic move to reduce development costs.
A contender to appear under the bonnet in Mercedes-Benz cars is BMW's 2.0-litre B48 petrol turbo engine, which is used in a host of BMW and Mini models. It is suitable for both longitudinal and transverse mounting, and is also compatible with hybrid schemes and can act as a generator on electric models with range extender.
If the partnership progresses, the two companies could eventually expand joint production beyond Europe. Specifically, launch joint powertrain production in the US, which would help the brands bypass duties and share production costs in a key market.
Mercedes already has an agreement with China's Geely, which supplies the M252 1.5-litre turbo engine for hybrid models, but a partnership with BMW looks more lucrative for Europe and North America.
Source: Manager Magazin
