Next Mazda BT-50 ute still fluid

It's no secret the Mazda BT-50 ute is underpinned by the same T6 platform that hides beneath the class-leading, Aussie-developed Ford Ranger one-tonner.

But Mazda, which simply doesn't have the resources to develop its own new ute from scratch, is now courting other car-makers for its next-generation BT-50 before its current deal with Ford runs its course.

As we've reported, Mazda has admitted to having early discussions about a pick-up joint-venture with Toyota, whose HiLux could form the basis of a new technical partnership with.

Speaking at the opening of the company's new Australia headquarters today, however, Mazda's Senior Managing Executive Officer, Yuji Nakamine, said that other car-makers are being courted.

"We are looking at a couple of alternatives," he said, confirming that talks with Toyota are not exclusive.

"We currently have a partnership with Ford on that [ute] project but in future we need a couple of alternatives, so we are now studying several others," he stated.

Although Nakamine wouldn't be drawn on specifics, he said the BT-50 is a crucial vehicle for the company, especially in Australia, and that after the Ford deal ends a new donor vehicle will be sought.

"Clearly we have to find a new solution to support that [ute] market," he added.

As for timing or naming potential partners, he was less forthcoming.

"At this moment I cannot talk about this project, but the ute market segment here is critically important for us and our dealers. At this moment we are studying what is the best way to support the market, in the ute segment."

Mazda is most likely to partner with another Japanese car-maker to develop its next BT and, apart from Toyota, potential candidates include Mitsubishi (Triton) and Nissan (Navara).

However, Nissan already has tie-ups with Renault and Mercedes-Benz, which will develop their own one-tonner dual-cabs based on the Navara within a couple of years, including the Renault Alaskan and Mercedes-Benz GLT-Class.