(autoinsidernews) - The long-rumored buyout of McLaren by DaimlerChrysler's Mercedes-Benz appears to be close to happening, according to insiders. Mercedes acquired a 40 percent stake in McLaren in 1999, and deal for complete buyout was rumored to have been done this summer, reports Trend. Ron Dennis is open to the possibility of a Mercedes buyout. If an opportunity presents itself and can make McLaren better, it is supported by its management and I embrace it, said Dennis, but he added that he would not necessarily agree to simply leave the team.
Dennis indicated that McLaren and Mercedes are working on projects that are outside of motorsports. We have some really exciting programs outside our Formula 1 team, he said, and want the company to grow, The two companies collaborated on the Mercedes McLaren SLR, and are believed to be working on another road car program.