Daimler Ponders Projects with Tesla, Renault-Nissan, Aston Martin

Daimler AG says it would welcome an expanded relationship with the Renault-Nissan alliance and to launching new electric-car projects with California-based Tesla Motors Inc.

CEO Dieter Zetsche tells reporters in Germany that other projects "could be possible" with Renault-Nissan beyond the current collaboration on Renault Twingo and Daimler Smart city cars and with Nissan's Infiniti luxury vehicle unit.

Zetsche describes Daimler's relationship with Tesla as "very constructive" with "room for further expansion." He also says Daimler would be willing to offer its GL off-road platform to Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. if it fit the British carmaker's product plan.