What Conflict? Mercedes awards SLS AMG body panel construction to Magna

Magna International pulled a bold move when it declared its intention to buy Opel from General Motors, bridging the gap between component supplier and contract manufacturer on the one hand, to independent automaker on the other. In the process, Magna jeopardized its relationships with Germany's largest automakers, including Volkswagen and BMW, who had been keen to do business with a supplier; less so with a direct competitor.

Daimler sees it another way, however. Not only will Magna continue building the legendary Gelandewagen for Mercedes-Benz at its facility in Graz, Austria, but Mercedes also announced that the contractor will make the aluminum body panels for the recently-unveiled SLS AMG supercar. For its part, Magna is satisfied to receive the business, naturally, while Mercedes and Daimler chief Dieter Zetsche says he sees no conflict of interest. Deliveries of the SLS are expected to begin next spring.

[Source: Automotive News – subs. req'd]