Chrysler LLC said Friday it remains focused on returning to profitability and won't comment on statements made by General Motors Corp. that the automakers' takeover talks have been suspended.
Chrysler LLC Chairman and Chief Executive Bob Nardelli said his company doesn't discuss its private business meetings, but will continue to explore a variety of options.
"We are significantly challenged by today's economic environment and by the automotive industry's unprecedented downturn," Nardelli said in a statement. "As an independent company, we will continue to explore multiple strategic alliances or partnerships as we investigate growth opportunities around the world that would aid in our return to profitability."
Earlier Thursday, Detroit-based GM reported a $2.5 billion third-quarter loss and warned it may run out of cash next year if the U.S. economic slump continues and it doesn't get government aid.
While it didn't specifically name Auburn Hills, Mich.-based automaker, GM said it was setting aside considerations for a "strategic acquisition."
The decision comes after months of talks between GM and Chrysler's majority owner Cerberus Capital Management LP about a possible combination. GM reportedly was after Chrysler's roughly $11 billion in cash and was seeking federal aid to make the deal happen.
Cerberus, which along with Chrysler and GM has yet to publicly acknowledge the talks, said Friday that it doesn't comment on speculation as a matter of policy.
"We are consistently evaluating potential alliances and investment opportunities," Cerberus said in a statement. "We remain focused on working to return Chrysler to profitability in this challenging environment."
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AP Auto Writer Dan Strumpf in New York contributed to this report.
