Daimler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche said the carmaker is in talks about deepening its cooperation with China’s Geely, even as German politicians draw up measures to protect German industry from foreign rivals.
Related: Geely Wins Approval on Daimler Deal
In October last year Daimler said it was setting up a ride-hailing joint venture in China with Geely after the Chinese company bought a 9.69% stake in Daimler and demanded an alliance, catching German managers off guard.
“We are in talks about other topics which have a bigger dimension,” Zetsche told journalists about the discussions with Chinese, declining to elaborate further. This statement comes as German politicians draw up measures to protect German industries from foreign rivals by buying into German brands to protect foreign outright ownership.
Related: Geely Becomes China’s Third Largest Carmaker
Global automotive eyes are now on Geely as they work to revitalize Proton and Lotus for the ASEAN region, which is the fastest growing automotive region in the world. And while the Europeans slow down the reliance on cars, ASEAN countries are buying more and more each year.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
