Tesla and BMW are currently having talks about a possible alliance to develop batteries and lightweight carbon fibre components, CEO Elon Musk told German weekly Der Spiegel.
BMW already uses carbon fibres from its joint venture with materials supplier SGL to make reinforced passenger cell parts for its i3 electric hatchback and i8 plug-in hybrid sports car. According to Musk, production of these parts is "interesting" and "relatively cost efficient."
BMW and Tesla executives previous met in June to discuss the creation of charging stations usable for different types of electric cars. In fact, Musk expects Tesla to have a battery production plant in Germany in 5-6 years.
"We are talking about whether we can collaborate in battery technology or charging stations," he was quoted as saying in the interview to Der Spiegel.
Source: Reuters