Chrysler likely to partner with Great Wall Motor

Shanghai, July 2 (Gasgoo.com) Chrysler signed a memorandum of understanding with China's Great Wall Motor in mid-June to seek opportunities of wide-ranging cooperation, reported 21st Century Business Herald today.

The memorandum shows that the initial cooperation between the two sides includes selling vehicles of both Chrysler and Great Wall brands simultaneously through their sales network and collaborating in auto parts and technology sectors. The cooperation is looking to the global market, said sources familiar with the matter.

Great Wall Motor Company Limited, a Chinese auto company mainly manufacturing SUVs and pickups, entered the passenger car market last year. Though little is known about Great Wall’s research and development capability on passenger vehicles, its production line and auto parts may be used by Chrysler.

As cooperation with Chery Automobile is suspended, Chrysler is seeking more cooperative opportunities in China. Chery spokesman Jin Yibo declined to comment on this matter. "We have no idea about whether Chrysler and Great Wall Motor signed a memorandum of understanding," he said.

Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda had signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chery director Yin Tongyao on July 4, 2007. But one year has passed, and there is no sign of their cooperation.

Though Chrysler is seeking other cooperative partners, Chery tends to be its most important potential partner as it is the most powerful one in Chrysler's possible partner list.