If a Bloomberg report is true, then Renault-Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn may finally find his long-coveted North American partner in the form of Chrysler LLC. Chrysler and Nissan reportedly are in talks to develop cars, trucks and engines together. The discussions are private so neither company has confirmed them, and could still fall apart.
Continue reading below
Collaboration seems to be becoming more common in the industry, especially for automakers that aren't the biggest. Interestingly, both companies are the third largest in their respective home markets.
The report is bolstered by the fact that Chrysler is especially active in collaborations with other automakers. Chrysler's ventures include building minivans for Volkswagen AG and developing small cars with Chinese automaker Chery Automobile Co. Ltd. Consequently, it would come as little surprise that Chrysler — regardless of new management and ownership — would be receptive to a partnership with Renault-Nissan.
After a proposed partnership with General Motors Corp. fell through last year, Renault-Nissan continued to seek a partner in the U.S., but found little interest until now. However, Bloomberg notes Chrysler and Nissan are reportedly not considering acquiring any equity stakes in each other, which was the sticking point that deep-sixed the Renault-Nissan partnership talks with GM. — Matthew Wurtzel
See story from Bloomberg
See story from the Detroit News
See earlier story from Dealscape
See Dealwatch: Chrysler
See Dealwatch: General Motors Corp.
