.Lefteris.
25th December 2008, 12:51
Fiat’s CEO, Sergio Marchionne, said that ” … the company would need to find another automotive partner to ensure the company’s survival in light of the recent economic downturn.” Hm, OK, that’s showing some foresight on his part, and also let’s you know just how deep in this mess we’re all in.
It seems that things are far enough along that political leaders in both France and Italy have held discussions on the matter. This, of course would be a necessary step, since both the Italian and French governments are part owners of Fiat and PSA (the conglomerate that contains Peugeot-Citroen).
The marriage isn’t without precedent, since the companies have worked together in the past such as the recent Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper and Fiat Ducato vans. Also, if the merger takes place, the resulting company would be the fourth largest automaker in the world, with an output rivaling Volkswagen and Renault-Nissan.
It seems that things are far enough along that political leaders in both France and Italy have held discussions on the matter. This, of course would be a necessary step, since both the Italian and French governments are part owners of Fiat and PSA (the conglomerate that contains Peugeot-Citroen).
The marriage isn’t without precedent, since the companies have worked together in the past such as the recent Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper and Fiat Ducato vans. Also, if the merger takes place, the resulting company would be the fourth largest automaker in the world, with an output rivaling Volkswagen and Renault-Nissan.