"We hadn't opened our books before the deal was signed for relatively obvious reasons. So that was done after the deal was signed," Renault's CEO Patrick Pelata was quoted as saying by Autonews.
The alliance between the three carmakers, cemented through a 3.1 percent shares swap, calls for sharing the same platform for the future generation smart four-seater and Renault Twingo, including electric versions, as well as an engine exchange between Renault-Daimler and Daimler-Infiniti (the luxury division of Nissan).
In addition, the cooperation between the three will see the creation of an all-new entry-level Mercedes van, to be built at the Renault plant in Maubeuge. Daimler will also purchase a small diesel engine and transmissions for the Mercedes-Benz Vito.
The alliance is considered by Daimler vital for the rebirth of the smart line, as well as an important part of the future of the company. With Renault's help, Daimler hopes to achieve a growth and double the rate of the global passenger car market for the year. Internal competition within the alliance is ruled out by Renault.
"We're putting everything together at the moment ... We're in the process of comparing who does what," Pelata added.
The combined operations of the three carmakers will be headed by Carlos Ghosn and Dieter Zetsche.
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