Renault Twingo to share majority of parts with Smart Fortwo

Only 30 percent of components will be unique to each brand, reports claim.

The next-generation Smart Fortwo and Forfour city cars will reportedly share approximately 70 percent of their components with Renault's Twingo hatchback.

Renault and Daimler have already acknowledged that both vehicle families have been co-developed as part of an ongoing partnership, however the companies are now beginning to shed light on the depth of their collaboration.

Daimler has yet to formally unveil the redesigned Fortwo and Forfour, but Smart chief Annette Winkler promises the city cars will remain just as short as the current editions, according to Automotive News Europe. They will also retain their existing B-pillar, while a battery-electric variant will remain a Smart exclusive in the family.

The Twingo is offered with a choice between three-cylinder engines, including a 1.0-liter mill with 70 horsepower or a turbocharged 0.9-liter variant with 90 ponies. Both Renault powerplants are said to be headed to Smart's redesigned cars.

Smart is expected to introduce the next-generation Fortwo and Forfour at the Paris auto show in October, with initial availability in Europe before heading to other markets.