Rumours of discussions between Fiat and VW Group over the possible sale of Alfa Romeo have surfaced yet again, this time involving Audi on the VW side.

A report carried by Ward’s cited sources close to Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne and Audi CEO Rupert Stadler as saying that the two have been in talks about the Alfa Romeo brand as well as a possible transfer of Fiat’s Pomigliano plant to Audi. There’s also a suggestion that Fiat owned components maker Magnetti Marelli is in the mix at the high-level talks.

There is some history of VW interest in Fiat’s Alfa Romeo brand. In 2010, VW Group supervisory board chair Ferdinand Piech said that VW wanted to acquire Alfa. When Fiat flatly rejected the idea, Piech responded that VW was ready to wait for it.

Fiat’s Marchionne has always maintained that reviving Alfa Romeo is key to Fiat Group’s future, a major plank in the company’s strategy. However, some fuel for the latest speculation and rumours is provided by the exceptionally weak financial position of Fiat Group caused by continued recession in Europe (with the Italian car market especially hard hit). Fiat is also facing a big draw on cash reserves in the US as it prepares to buy up the rest of Chrysler.

As is customary, both Fiat and Audi are denying that such talks are taking place.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.