GWM wants to buy Fiat Chrysler

Main interest in Jeep, as company wants to become largest SUV maker

CHINA’S Great Wall Motor Company is interested in bidding for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), a company official said yesterday, confirming earlier reports that it is pursuing all or part of the owner of brands, including Jeep and truckmaker Ram.

There has been speculation over Chinese interest in FCA since Automotive News reported last week that an unidentified “well-known Chinese carmaker” made an offer earlier this month.

FCA chief executive Sergio Marchionne is seeking a partner or buyer for the world’s seventh-largest carmaker to help it manage rising costs, comply with emissions regulations and develop technology for electric and self-driving cars.

An acquisition by Great Wall Motor would be audacious, and one of China’s highest profile manufacturing deals to date.

Earlier yesterday, two people familiar with the matter said Great Wall Motor had asked for a meeting with FCA, with the aim of making an offer for all or part of the Italian-American auto group.

Also yesterday, citing an e-mail from Great Wall Motor president Wang Fengying, Automotive News reported that Great Wall Motor had contacted FCA to express interest specifically in the Jeep brand.

The industry publication cited a Great Wall Motor spokesperson confirming interest, but saying the Chinese carmaker had not made a formal offer or met with FCA’s board.

“Our strategic goal is to become

‘Acquiring Jeep, a global SUV brand, would enable us to achieve our goal sooner.’

the world’s largest SUV maker,” Automotive News quoted the spokesperson as saying, referring to sport utility vehicles.

“Acquiring Jeep, a global SUV brand, would enable us to achieve our goal sooner and better (than on our own).”

FCA shares rose 3.9 percent to €11.12 (R171.74) in early Milan trading, outperforming a flat market.

Great Wall Motor shares were up almost 3 percent in Shanghai.

FCA was not immediately available to comment on interest in the group. Earlier, officials declined to comment on the earlier Automotive News report focused on Jeep.

“Jeep is the most logical choice since (Great Wall) wants to be the largest SUV maker in the world,” said Yale Zhang, head of Shanghai-based consultancy Automotive Foresight.

Ram could be an option, but “the Jeep brand is recognised globally. I think Great Wall Motor is eyeing a global strategy, not just the US,” Zhang added.

A move for FCA or one of its main brands, if successful, would allow Great Wall Motor to accelerate a planned push into the US market, the two people familiar with the matter said. – Reuters