Mini, small and mid-sized car platforms plus engines and transmissions may be the first Fiat properties to reach Chrysler in case the two companies reach an agreement, the aforementioned source wrote quoting the Chrysler insiders.
In exchange for these production platforms, Fiat would get a 30-35 percent stake in Chrysler plus a special clause that would allow the Italian automaker to purchase up to 55 percent of the American company over the next years.
Even though representatives of both companies refused to comment the report, Chrysler issued a statement explaining that such negotiations make sense in such a difficult environment.
"In today's economic environment, talks are going on between companies in all industries -- ours is no different. Chrysler LLC as a matter of policy however, does not confirm or disclose the nature of its private business meetings. Beyond those partnerships and alliances already announced, Chrysler has no further announcements to make at this time,” Chrysler said according to Autonews.
Beside the aforementioned terms of transaction, reaching an agreement would be useful for both companies. For instance, such an agreement would allow Chrysler to concentrate on small cars and launch them faster than developing new models and using its own equipment. Such cars would be ready in 2010 or 2011, Autonews wrote, as the market is continuously demanding small-displacement vehicles that would provide reduced fuel consumption.
On the other hand, Fiat would expand its operations in the North American market, as the Italian automaker already has plans to launch a number of models in this side of the industry.
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