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Samsung might buy Magneti Marelli, FCA's parts supplier

Automotive manufacturing is quickly changing as companies like Google and Apple move into the sector with new products and services. It should be no surprise that other tech companies are making moves to grab a piece of the pie. According to Bloomberg, Korean tech conglomerate Samsung is in talks to purchase major automotive parts supplier Magneti Marelli from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Bloomberg reports that the deal could be worth more than $3 billion. It seems that Samsung is interested in Magneti Marelli's lighting, in-car entertainment, and telematics businesses, but a full purchase of the company isn't off the table. The move would be Samsung's largest-ever purchase outside of South Korea. FCA has already started to branch out and partner with tech firms. The automaker is working with Google to build an autonomous version of the new Pacifica minivan. They hope to have the first batch on the road by the end of the year. Magneti Marelli currently supplies everything from lighting and instrument clusters for passenger vehicles to high-end electronic components for Formula One and MotoGP teams. The company, founded in Italy in 1919, employs around 38,000 workers. Although it's currently owned by FCA, in the past Magneti Marelli has worked with companies like Ford and Microsoft. The purchase could help further diversify Samsung and reduce its dependence on consumer electronics like phones and televisions. Samsung is the world's largest supplier of memory chips and TVs, but the company has taken a hit lately as sales of its smartphones have faltered. In order to keep up with rivals like Apple, the company will need to venture into new markets. Perhaps Samsung's phone expertise would translate to improved vehicle infotainment systems. FCA, on the other hand, is on an aggressive five-year plan aimed at doubling net income. CEO Sergio Marchionne is attempting to eliminate the company's debt, and selling off a major subsidiary could greatly help. A recent attempt at a merger with General Motors failed and further hurt the company's finances. FCA's stock price rose in response to the rumors of the Magneti Marelli sale. Both Samsung and FCA have declined to comment on the move. Related Video: News Source: Bloomberg Technology Rumormill Chrysler Fiat Technology FCA Samsung magnetti marelli

Minivan market not what it used to be, but margins make up for it

Residual values for last year's minivans are higher than they were in 2000.
Much like the station wagon was the shuttle of Baby Boomer generation, the minivan has been the primary means of transport for Generations X and Y. Just as the boomers abandoned the Country Squire, though, those kids that were toted around in Grand Caravans and Windstars are adults, and they certainly don't want to be seen in the cars their parents drove.

Will the Chrysler 300 go front-wheel drive?

FCA chief executive Sergio Marchionne hinted last week that the strapping rear-wheel-drive Chrysler 300 sedan could go front-wheel drive for its next generation using the underpinnings from the Chrysler Pacifica minivan. Speaking at the Pacifica's production launch in Windsor, ON, Marchionne said, "this plant and this architecture is capable of making the 300 successor, the front-wheel, all-wheel-drive successor," Reuters reported. Perhaps realizing he appeared to be announcing a dramatic shift in product strategy, Marchionne backpedaled in response to a follow-up question, noting only that the Ontario factory is "capable" of making the sedan. "It's capable. It's not a commitment," he said, according to Reuters. The 300 is currently built in Brampton, ON, alongside the mechanically similar Dodge Charger and Challenger. The platform, known as LX in enthusiast circles, is an evolution of Mercedes-based chassis pieces that date to the DaimlerChrysler era. Marchionne's comments didn't cover the Dodges and left a lot open to interpretation. The 300 could switch to front- and all-wheel-drive and focus on a more civilized, elegant ride character, leaving the Charger and two-door Challenger as traditional rear-wheel-drive muscle cars. That strategy would further differentiate the Chrysler and Dodge car lines. Additionally, the Charger's RWD platform makes it a popular police vehicle, and both Dodges are offered in top trim as 707-horsepower Hellcats. Switching to front-wheel drive would seemingly complicate both of those endeavors. Rumors have also swirled that Alfa Romeo could contribute RWD underpinnings for Dodge. Related Video: Featured Gallery 2015 Chrysler 300 View 92 Photos Design/Style Chrysler Dodge Off-Road Vehicles Performance Sedan chrysler pacifica