Fresh on the heels of the news that Aston will produce the Toyota iQ-based Cygnet, there is word that Mercedes-Benz might be interested, again, in working very closely with the storied brand from Gaydon, Warwickshire.
First, the Cygnet. This microcar exists solely to help the supercar maker reduce its carbon footprint and overall impact on the environment. According to Aston Martin, this vehicle is aimed exclusively at existing owners of their products and that require a small urban car.
Says Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez: “Our customers need a small car for urban and city use, and they want the right tools for the right job, to downsize creatively without compromising intelligence, artistry and personality”.
The Cygnet will be available essentially as a blank canvas awaiting the instructions of the buyer as to trim materials, equipment and accessories. Yes, a $50,000 Cygnet could very well exist.
Although this may be a reality, there are countless enthusiasts and brand buffs that are crying foul. The fact of the matter is that Aston Martin needs this small car. Think of it as Porsche's Cayenne but not like that...
Where the story becomes even more interesting is when Mercedes-Benz gets thrown into the mix. Now here's a very large manufacturer that covers the entire spectrum of the industry, from massive lorries to tiny urban cars.
Should Mercedes be interested in purchasing large shares of the British brand, would this mean that the Cygnet is no longer necessary? One way or another, the merging of these two brands could be very beneficial for Aston. As for Mercedes, it's tougher to figure out why they would do this other than simply adding a feather to its already loaded cap.
One way or another, things are shaking up in Gaydon.
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| Photo: Aston Martin |
First, the Cygnet. This microcar exists solely to help the supercar maker reduce its carbon footprint and overall impact on the environment. According to Aston Martin, this vehicle is aimed exclusively at existing owners of their products and that require a small urban car.
Says Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez: “Our customers need a small car for urban and city use, and they want the right tools for the right job, to downsize creatively without compromising intelligence, artistry and personality”.
The Cygnet will be available essentially as a blank canvas awaiting the instructions of the buyer as to trim materials, equipment and accessories. Yes, a $50,000 Cygnet could very well exist.
Although this may be a reality, there are countless enthusiasts and brand buffs that are crying foul. The fact of the matter is that Aston Martin needs this small car. Think of it as Porsche's Cayenne but not like that...
Where the story becomes even more interesting is when Mercedes-Benz gets thrown into the mix. Now here's a very large manufacturer that covers the entire spectrum of the industry, from massive lorries to tiny urban cars.
Should Mercedes be interested in purchasing large shares of the British brand, would this mean that the Cygnet is no longer necessary? One way or another, the merging of these two brands could be very beneficial for Aston. As for Mercedes, it's tougher to figure out why they would do this other than simply adding a feather to its already loaded cap.
One way or another, things are shaking up in Gaydon.
 |
| Photo: Aston Martin |