Speaking on German public TV station ARD, Guttenberg said that Germany still expects General Motors to sell Opel in spite of reports hinting that the American company might try to retain the German brand.
"We're still negotiating toward an investor solution -- that is an industry-based plan which will be valid in the longer term," he said according to a report by Reuters.
Separately, RHJ last week confirmed it has submitted an improved bid for Opel, with less government participation representing one of the most important changes in the proposal. This perfectly complies with GM's requirements which is seeking a suitor that doesn't want to involve the government in the business.
"RHJ had already stated it was trying to optimize the financial aspect of its offer and it will continue to make every effort wherever possible to reduce the impact on German and European taxpayers without making any new cuts in employment, planned investments or anything else," an RHJ spokesman said.
In opposition to Germany's soft spot for Magna, General Motors is supporting RHJ International whose offer is easier to implement, according to officials involved in the talks. Nevertheless, a decision is yet to be made but, if we trust zu Guttenberg, we're getting closer and closer to the official announcement.
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