HIROSHIMA, Japan, and TURIN, Italy -

Mazda Motor Corp. and Fiat Group Automobile S.p.A. are teaming up to build a new roadster that will be based on Mazda’s MX-5 rear-wheel-drive architecture, the companies announced Wednesday.

The companies signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding, under which they will develop and build the roadsters for the respective Mazda and Alfa Romeo brands.

Under the agreement, Mazda and Fiat are to craft “two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific light weight, roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive,” officials noted.

There will be a specific, unique-to-the-brand proprietary engine for each of the two variants of the roadster (Mazda, Alfa Romeo).

The plan is for both the Mazda and Alfa Romeo editions to be built at Mazda’s plant in Hiroshima, Japan. Officials expect the Alfa Romeo edition to begin production in 2015.

The companies anticipate signing a final agreement in the second half of this year and note that have agreed to discuss possible collaborations for the future.

“Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction. It is especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognized as the best-selling roadster of all time.” said Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s representative director and chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer.

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne added: “This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand. By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognized leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition. We are appreciative of this collaboration with Mazda and look forward to maintaining a fruitful and continuous relationship.”