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And there are rumors of ties with Chinese makers as well....
Chrysler weighs deal to build cars in Russia
Top Chrysler LLC executives, eager to boost overseas sales, will meet today with the president of Russian automaker GAZ to discuss a deal to build Chrysler vehicles in Russia's booming market.
Such a project would allow Chrysler to tap into the rapid growth in Russian car and truck sales without making a huge investment, said sources familiar with the negotiations.
The discussions between GAZ President Leonid Dolgov, Chrysler President Tom LaSorda and other officials at Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters illustrate the profound changes taking place in the industry, where ambitious companies from emerging markets are forming ties with struggling old-line automakers.
GAZ, part of a group owned by Oleg Deripaska, a tycoon close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, is seeking access to North American auto technology and know-how. GAZ bought a $1.54 billion stake in Canadian auto supplier Magna International Inc. in May. Over the next five years, it plans to invest $1.25 billion in the United States.
Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm also is scheduled to meet GAZ President Dolgov today to press for some of the investment, her office confirmed.
"If GAZ is going to invest $1.5 billion in the United States over the next five years, we want that investment here in Michigan," Granholm spokeswoman Liz Boyd said. "The governor is going to take every opportunity to fight for investment and jobs in this state."
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Top Chrysler LLC executives, eager to boost overseas sales, will meet today with the president of Russian automaker GAZ to discuss a deal to build Chrysler vehicles in Russia's booming market.
Such a project would allow Chrysler to tap into the rapid growth in Russian car and truck sales without making a huge investment, said sources familiar with the negotiations.
The discussions between GAZ President Leonid Dolgov, Chrysler President Tom LaSorda and other officials at Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters illustrate the profound changes taking place in the industry, where ambitious companies from emerging markets are forming ties with struggling old-line automakers.
GAZ, part of a group owned by Oleg Deripaska, a tycoon close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, is seeking access to North American auto technology and know-how. GAZ bought a $1.54 billion stake in Canadian auto supplier Magna International Inc. in May. Over the next five years, it plans to invest $1.25 billion in the United States.
Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm also is scheduled to meet GAZ President Dolgov today to press for some of the investment, her office confirmed.
"If GAZ is going to invest $1.5 billion in the United States over the next five years, we want that investment here in Michigan," Granholm spokeswoman Liz Boyd said. "The governor is going to take every opportunity to fight for investment and jobs in this state."
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