After reaching an agreement with Hyundai a few months ago, Iveco is now getting closer to Foton. The two manufacturers are exploring a cooperation on electric utility vehicles that could lead to a new model for the Italian brand.
Iveco is looking to expand its range of vehicles in the lower segments, especially light commercial vehicles under 3.5 tons, as its Daily model covers the 3.5 to 7.2-ton category. The Italian manufacturer had previously signed an agreement in February with Hyundai for a future electric model in a cab chassis variant.
The newly signed agreement with Foton is expected to involve a van model, which could also be distributed in Latin America. The collaboration may also see Foton benefiting from its partner’s assistance in localizing some of its operations in Europe or South America.
Foton is a significant truck and utility vehicle manufacturer in China and is part of the BAIC Group (Beijing Auto). It also partners with Daimler Trucks to produce Mercedes or Auman branded trucks. Foton’s range of light commercial vehicles includes vans and pickups. For the agreement with Iveco, the most likely models are the Toano V, similar to the Mercedes Sprinter or Renault Master, and the E7, a smaller model comparable to Vito or Trafic.
It is worth noting that Iveco did not involve its Chinese partner SAIC, or the latter did not accept the agreement.
