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Mercedes-Benz Considering Aston Martin Buyout
Rumors about Mercedes-Benz considering an all out buyout of Aston Martin have been going on from even before the deal between the two automakers took root late last year.
Now, those rumours have grown in strength following Daimler and Mercedes-Benz head Dieter Zetsche hinting at a possible move to purchase the iconic British brand.
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According to one AutocarUK report, Zetsche did not outright rule out the possibility of an acquisition of Aston Martin by Mercedes-Benz, thought he tried his best not to provide too much fodder to the already growing rumor.
"This is a fantastic brand, and we are willing to support its further development," Zetsche is reported to have stated.
The deal between Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz was finalized in December 2013. As per the deal the German auto giant will provide Aston with new engines and will also extend help with electronics.
The next-gen Aston Martin Vantage will be powered by a Mercedes AMG developed V8 engine. AMG will also be responsible for developing ECU circuits and testing the new engine.
Though the specifics of the said engine are not out yet it is believed to be a twin-turbo 4.0 litre V8 unit rated at 480 bhp. This is expected to be the same engine that will be found in the upcoming SLS AMG replacement, the C63 AMG.
Aston Martin is currently the only major luxury and sportscar brand that's not controlled or supported by an auto major. While this gives Aston Martin independance the company has been struggling financially since its release from Ford's ownership.
Setting aside acquisition rumors, Mercedes-Benz has in the past expressed its interest in extending its partnership with Aston Martin from merely being engine suppliers. Such a deeper tie up with Merc would result in platform sharing and the possible revival of the Aston Martin Lagonda SUV concept.
Either a deeper tie up Mercedes-Benz or an all out buyout by the latter would immensely benefit the British car maker which is not financially strong enough to develop new modern generation cars on its own.
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