Mercedes-AMG, the high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz, has bought a 25 per cent stake in Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta.
The companies have also signed a deal to cooperate on developing a long-term partnership, which will encompass areas including marketing and sales.
Collaborating will allow the brands to widen their customer bases worldwide, and give Mercedes-Benz something with which to rival Audi's ownership of Ducati – a brand which Mercedes-AMG had previously been keen to buy.
No details were disclosed for the amount paid by Mercedes-AMG for the stake in MV Agusta. The deal has still to be rubber-stamped, but approval is expected to be granted later this year. Mercedes-AMG will appoint one director to the board of MV Agusta.
MV Agusta, which is based in Italy, was founded in 1945 and is well regarded for its high-performance motorcycles. It primarily produces three- and four-cylinder models and also owns another motorcycle brand, Cagiva.
Tobias Moers, boss of Mercedes-AMG, said: “In MV Agusta, we have found the perfect two-wheel partner for Mercedes-AMG. This manufacturer with a long tradition and Mercedes-AMG are connected not only by a long and successful racing history, but also by shared values and goals for the future.
“The cooperation with MV Agusta also underscores the importance of AMG as the sports-car and high-performance brand of Mercedes-Benz Cars. The partnership provides us with an entry into a world of additional high-performance enthusiasts."
Mercedes-AMG revealed its new GT sports car in October, as well as the latest version of the C63 in saloon and estate forms.
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