BMW, Daimler May Share Vehicle Components

BMW AG and Daimler AG are exploring the possibility of lowering costs by sharing technology and vehicle platforms, sources tell Bloomberg News.

They say talks are in the early stages and may not produce results. Any sharing would involve products and components that are not brand-specific.

Bloomberg notes that the two competitors already collaborate on component purchases. They also joined Audi AG in acquiring  HERE Global BV, Nokia’s digital mapping company, in 2015. And yesterday they confirmed they expect to merge their ride-sharing, multi-modal and electric vehicle charging services by year-end.