According to informed sources, Mercedes-Benz Group has engaged in preliminary discussions with Geely Auto to deepen their collaboration, aiming to strengthen automotive research and development in its largest market.

Sources who requested anonymity due to the private nature of the talks indicated that early discussions primarily focused on potential cooperation for vehicle models succeeding Mercedes-Benz's current generation of electric vehicles. Further reliance on Geely Auto could assist Mercedes-Benz in shortening its research and development cycle in China and reducing engineering costs.

A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz stated that the company "continuously evaluates ways to accelerate, optimize, and enhance the efficiency of research and development both in China and globally." A spokesperson for Geely Auto declined to comment.