Daimler’s plan for a technology link with Renault could also take in the French company’s alliance partner Nissan.
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Daimler chairman Dieter Zetsche said at the Detroit show his company was considering a partnership with Nissan if it could agree a deal on a proposed technological tie-up with Renault.
He said: “’We have confirmed that we are in discussions with Renault, but there are other discussions going on as well. Obviously, potential expansion with Nissan is something to consider.”
Zetsche said Daimler wanted to strike a deal with Renault in the first half of 2010. It is understood that the compaies would cooperate on environment friendly vehicles such as electric cars.
Nissan and Renault formed their alliance in 1999.
Earlier at the show, CEO Alan Mulally said Ford would maintain its current capital and business alliance with Mazda Motor.
He said: ”We treasure our relationship with Mazda. It’s been very useful and beneficial for both of us even though we had to [reduce] our equity position.”
Ford holds an 11% stake in Mazda since selling part of its share in 2008.
