Sunday, January 15, 2006

DaimlerChrysler in Talks to Use Volkswagen's Polo Platform for New Compact Model

Text from Forbes.com
FRANKFURT (AFX) - DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler unit is in talks to use Volkswagen AG's compact Polo model platform for a planned Dodge brand compact car, Automobilwoche magazine said in a report to be published tomorrow, citing Chrysler head Tom LaSorda.

'VW is a possible partner for further projects,' LaSorda said. 'The times in which a company could face an industry on its own are over.'

But Frank Klegon, head of Chrysler development, told the newspaper: 'We are also in talks with Hyundai and Mitsubishi.'

A decision is expected by mid-year.

DaimlerChrysler and VW earlier this month reportedly reached an agreement to produce small vans in the US.