GM, Chrysler increasing hybrid partnership?

Typically, statements containing GM and hybrid cars revolve around GM's Bob Lutz ridiculing hybrid vehicles. Sure, GM is producing some hybrid buses, but where are the passenger automobiles? Recently, GM and DaimlerChrysler announced a partnership to develop hybrid technology, and GM has stated that it expects to have hybrids available in late 2007. Now there is talk that a third automaker is about to join the hybrid project. "There are discussions under way. They are very lively and very serious," Dieter Zetsche, Chrysler group CEO, said last week after a speech here. "I would not be surprised if within this year we would come up with an additional" partner. (AutoWeek)