BMW and General Motors (GM) might seem like an unlikely pair; but, according to recent reports the two automakers are currently negotiating a possible collaboration on fuel-cell technology. German publication, Wirtschafts Woche, indicates that inside sources even go so far as to say the discussion isn't new and the two companies are quite close to wrapping up a formal agreement.

As you might recall, this isn't the first joint venture BMW is entering. The luxury automaker has recently announced that they'll be partnering with Toyota in an effort to ignite fresh green technology systems. It really all boils down to two heads being better than one. And, similar to the BMW-Toyota alliance, the goal of a BMW-GM tie is for both companies to expand their expertise and keep research and development (R&D) costs as low as possible. This should not only help to preserve the automakers' budgets but consumers' bank accounts as well - and perhaps most important, to create the best end product possible.

In the agreement between BMW and GM, which is expected to be signed in the imminent future, the Bavarian automaker will be granted access to the American automaker's advanced fuel-cell technology. To hold up their end of the bargain, BMW would, in return, help foot the R&D bill.

At this time, GM remains very tight-lipped about the arrangement. BMW, less so; but is still extremely vague. "We are speaking to GM about various future technologies but we are not saying anything more beyond that," explains a spokesman from the luxury automaker.

Be sure to stay tuned to see exactly how this pending alliance unfurls. In the meantime, Motor Werks BMW, located at 1475 S. Barrington Rd in Barrington, IL 60010 invites you to explore our entire new BMW lineup, including the eco-conscious BMW ActiveHybrid 750i, BMW ActiveHybrid 750Li and BMW ActiveHybrid X6. And remember, if we don't currently have the new or used BMW model in which you're interested - let us know. We'll do everything we can to get it for you A.S.A.P.