Fiat Seeks Partner, Courts Mitsubishi

Fiat Auto CEO Roberto Testore recently confirmed that Fiat was talking to Mitsubishi, but said the talks were aimed at industrial and commercial ties. However, Fiat is known to be actively seeking a partner and was recently beaten by Ford in the bidding for Volvo. Mitsubishi acknowledges that it is involved in talks with several automakers, including Fiat.

But many analysts believe DaimlerChrysler may be interested in an alliance with Mitsubishi. DaimlerChrysler pulled out of Nissan talks last month and it is known to be interested in an Asian partner. The former Chrysler and Mitsubishi have a long record of joint vehicle development and engine supply, and analysts say Mitsubishi's truck division would fit well with Mercedes-Benz's truck arm.

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