Chrysler, GM may develop SUV together

DaimlerChrysler`s U.S. Chrysler Group and General Motors Corp. are talking about jointly developing a sport utility vehicle, a published report said Thursday.

The SUV, a large vehicle like the Chevrolet Suburban, is one of several joint projects the automakers are discussing, The Wall Street Journal said.

The companies also are looking to develop small cars through GM Daewoo Auto & Technology in South Korea which builds the Chevrolet Aveo compact car. Chrysler is talking about developing a subcompact with Chinese automaker Chery Automobile to be sold in the United States.

When Chrysler announced its turnaround plan Wednesday, DaimlerChrysler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche said all options were being discussed, including a possible Chrysler sale.

GM and Chrysler would not comment on German magazine Manager Magazin`s report GM was in talks to purchase the Chrysler Group.

Chrysler already has a partnership with Volkswagen AG to develop and produce a minivan marketed under the Volkswagen brand.