Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz might collaborate, says Dieter Zetsche

According to Daimler’s boss Dieter Zetsche, a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin could take place. Apparently, smaller brands need help with new technology and Mercedes-Benz could do new partnerships in the future. Furthermore, some sources said that Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz could collaborate on a range of ventures, from engine supply to entirely new models.

Back in 2008, reports suggested that Daimler was looking to buy a substantial stake in Aston Martin. If this collaboration will happen, then Aston Martin could take the 6.2-liter V8 engine found on the SLS AMG.
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MorePower - 10/12/2010 10:08:20 PM

+3 Boost

Dear Mr. Richards,

Be careful of MB and Dr. Z. Sure, they promise you fun times and all the candy you can eat, but then they'll take all of your cool stuff and leave you.

P.S.

Mr. Richards, find a way to get that AMG sourced 6.2 ltr without selling your soul or the company! That engine in an Aston curved body would be magical.

ThierryHenry14 - 10/13/2010 1:06:12 PM

0 Boost

I agree... If only they will keep the 6.2l instead of changing towards the 5.5l b-t... I just think raw displacement suits MB better

nguyenvuminh - 10/13/2010 1:29:57 AM

+3 Boost

I've been hearing comments about how Daimler screwed Chrysler but I don't know which technology from Chrysler that Daimler actually used in their line up. I was under the impression from the original deal that Chrysler was the volume brand that Daimler can introduce their (Daimler's) technology in, thereby increase the production number and realise economies of scale. It was a mutual decision and I thought Chrysler went into the deal thinking the benefit would be introduction of some of Daimler's technology into the Chrysler upmarket models without having to bear the brunt of research and development cost. But over the last 2-3 years, all I hear is Daimler "raped" Chrysler and hung Chrysler out to dry. Would be interested in hearing the specific examples that led to this sentiment.

280SE - 10/13/2010 8:22:11 AM

+3 Boost

I agree. Plus, Daimler actually had to PAY Cerberus to take Chrysler and their monstrous pension liabilities off their hands.

ThierryHenry14 - 10/13/2010 1:07:14 PM

+1 Boost

I just think chrysler was screwed up to begin with...

dumpsty - 10/13/2010 4:31:21 PM

+1 Boost

nguyenvuminh, that was the original plan for the DCX merger. However, when Daimler-Benz got into bed, it realized that it didn't really want to share much of it's M-B tech goodies with Chrysler --- fearing that the move would de-value its technology industry-wise and that it may damage the M-B brand and drive prices down. Also, Daimler didn't want the Viper or Chrysler to become a brand stronger than Benz. DCX also killed plans to build the ME-412 rear engine super car the Chrysler, M-B, and McLaren worked on. After that, it was obvious, M-B could/didn't understand how to (take over) a large American automaker.

Daimler-Benz missed its opportunity to manage a healthy portfolio of brands like VW does today. Daimler used up much of Chysler's cash to try to successfully (merge), but floundering in the design department hurt all of Chrysler's lineups. The fruits of the failed partnership weren't seen until they had split (new Grd Cherokee, Commander, 300C, Magnum). Now, with renewed efforts to keep certain cynergies going, the 2 automakers seem to work well as separate entities (new Grd Cherokee, upcoming Durango).