Mercedes, Chrysler won't share platforms

Despite pressure to cut costs and increase productivity, DaimlerChrysler will not blur the distinctions between its Chrysler Group and Mercedes brands, said head of corporate development Ruediger Grube.

"A Mercedes will remain a Mercedes and may not share a platform with anyone," Grube said, according to Reuters. "We will not use a vehicle platform for several brands."

Recently, a number of investors began putting pressure DaimlerChrysler to consider a de-merger of Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz. The shareholders were critical of the lack of synergy between the two halves of the company. "Cooperation between Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler is still very limited," one portfolio manager said. Grube's comments will likely bolster the de-merger movement among skeptical investors.