Tesla is no stranger to partnerships with established automakers, having collaborated with both Toyota and Daimler. The upstart automaker might soon add BMW to its list of partners, CEO Elon Musk disclosed in a conversation with Der Spiegel.
“We are talking about whether we can collaborate in battery technology or charging stations,” Musk was quoted as saying in an article published Sunday.
Although few details were given, Musk’s comments follow a report in June that indicated Tesla might open its charging stations to vehicles from other automakers. Such an approach could allow the automaker to increase the number of stations, which are currently only located at strategic points along major routes.
Musk also said he anticipates opening a battery production plant in Germany within five or six years — an ambition that would likely be bolstered by a partnership with a major German automaker.
Also of note were Musk’s comments about BMW’s use of advanced materials in its new hybrid-electric models. He said the use of carbon fiber in the i3 and i8 models was “interesting” and “relatively cost efficient.”
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