Indian Automakers To Rescue Sicilian Fiat Plant?
In Italian tradition, there’s not a lot of love lost between the Southern and Northern parts of the country. In part, because the North has always held the majority of the wealth and in part, because the two cultures are so very different. In this light, Sergio Marchionne’s plans, straight from Fiat’s Turin headquarters, to end production at their plant in Sicily, probably didn’t do much to help North-South relations. But don’t worry, the Italian government (and possibly Indian automakers) are here to help. The Times of India reports that the minister for economic development, Claudio Scajola, invited Indian firms to invest in the Italian automotive industry. More specifically, the invite was to take over Fiat’s unprofitable car unit in Sicily, which is being eyed for closure. “We are absolutely happy and open to any Indian investment in the automotive industry as well as in any other industry,” Claudio Scajola told reporters in Mumbai. “We do hope that Indian investors come to Italy.” Tata Motors declined to comment and Mahindra & Mahindra said they do not comment on speculation. Chinese firm Chery has denied being in talks to buy the plant. Looks like Claudio Scajalo needs a harder sell to bring those Asians westward.
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