A European official from GM, Klaus Franz, said acquiring Chrysler would be a "disaster" for the automaker, adding "this is only a step to remain the number-one automaker. The problem is that Chrysler is in the same situation as GM. They don't have the right product portfolio." Franz then compared the possible merger to GM’s previous alliance with Fiat, stating “GM lost a lot of money with that decision. I hope GM learned its lesson."
DaimlerChrysler CEO Dr. Dieter Zetsche added fuel to the speculation-fire when he made comments last week that the company was open to all options for the Chrysler group, including a sale.