Aston MartinAston MartinUnited Kingdom, 1914 > present62 models
1872 photos
24 videos
and MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
9852 photos
33 videos
have begun negotiations on future parts sharing and technical cooperation.

Since being sold by FordFordUnited States of America, 1903 > present92 models
2522 photos
11 videos
, Aston Martin has struggled in the technology race against competitors.  Aston Martin is one of the few remaining luxury sports car makers that do not have a link to a larger automaker to supply components and technology. 

"While both sides know and respect each other very much, no decisions have been made," said Daimler spokesperson Silke Walters. 

Both sides say it could be several months before any deal is completed. 

Investindustrial bought a 37.5% stake in Aston Martin in December. The possibility of some partnership with Mercedes was a major part of the reason that Aston Martin chose Investindustrial to buy a portion of the company. Investindustrial created its links with Mercedes while it owned Ducati.

It has promised to invest £500 million ($777 million) over four years to improve the company's technology. It also said that it would try to use its links to Mercedes to allow Aston Martin to use some of its engines, especially Mercedes' V12s.

Source: Automotive News Europe