If the project gets the green light, the BMW pickup will be able to directly compete with the announced Mercedes-Benz GLT truck.

“At BMW, we closely monitor market trends. We are constantly looking for new niches where we can offer products that meet the demands of our customers,” Mark Werner, managing director of BMW Australia, told Autocar.

Recall that, as previously reported by AvtoPortal, Mercedes-Benz plans to release its pickup in 2017, based on the Nissan Navara model. Volker Mornhinweg, who heads the Mercedes-Benz Vans division responsible for developing this vehicle, promised: “The new model will combine practicality with the design and comfort inherent in Mercedes passenger cars.”

Technical details about the Mercedes pickup remain under wraps for now.