Fiat Chrysler Automobiles could purchase tech, platforms from Tesla

The reports are coming out that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles could buy EV technology, components, and even platforms from Tesla, an American automaker specialized in building electric vehicles. This comes after Fiat and PSA Group announced a 50:50 merger deal, which will also make them the fourth-largest automobile group in the world. 

The CEO of Fiat Chrysler, Mike Manley mentioned that if the merger has to go through, then a step towards electrification of the brand’s product range should be on the cards. The company is looking to take the production of electric vehicles to the next level and then collaborate on the vehicle-pooling front too with Tesla. 

Manley also said that customers will be skeptical initially due to the sharing of parts that include drivetrain and batteries as of now, which could also result in the purchase of Tesla’s ‘skateboard’ platform in the coming days. Later the tuning of the suspension and other related systems will be carried out to match the requirements.

Manley kept quiet upon asking about the deal details with Tesla for the pooling of vehicles for compliance in Europe to avoid fines as there are new and stringent CO2 emission norms in place from this year. The CEO, however, mentioned that the vehicle-pooling deal between FCA and Tesla is likely to conclude by 2021. FCA would start gaining the full benefit of its own efforts from the next year.

During his conversation with Business Standard, Manley said, “Our relationship with Tesla goes back a long way, and it has really helped us. But FCA are absolutely committed to reducing CO2 emissions around the world.” Fiat Chrysler has witnessed better profit numbers than expected Q3 figures. 

Also read: EV Crossover based on Mustang to come out in November 2020