What is it with German premium carmakers and Italian motorcycle brands? Some two years after Audi acquired Ducati, Mercedes-Benz said it will buy a 25 percent stake in MV Agusta through its AMG unit.

Without disclosing any financial details, the Stuttgart-based carmaker said it signed a long-term partnership together with the stake purchase, and will take a seat on MV Agusta’s board of directors.

Mercedes, which previously had a partnership with Ducati that came to an abrupt end after VW Group’s Audi unit bought the Italian motorcycle brand in 2012, said the cooperation with MV Agusta will include the area of marketing and sales.

Reuters put another twist in the story suggesting that the Stuttgart automaker could also gain access to MV Agusta’s lightweight three- and four-cylinder models ranging from 675 to 1100 cubic centimeters engines, which it could use in future range-extender vehicles.

Below you’ll find statements made from Mercedes-AMG and MV Agusta officials:

Tobias Moers, Chief Executive of Mercedes-AMG GmbH:

“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 – allowing the experience of utmost perfection, optimal performance and motorsport technology for the road. 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.”

Giovanni Castiglioni, President and CEO of MV Agusta Motor S.p.A.:

“MV Agusta and Mercedes-AMG are a perfect brand fit: Two complementary companies that stand for design, high performance and excellence. Mercedes-AMG will help MV Agusta to further expand globally and to accelerate our growth. The uniqueness of MV Agusta will further enhance Mercedes-AMG’s leadership in the high-performance segment.”

Wilko Stark, Vice President Daimler Strategy & Mercedes-Benz Cars Product Strategy and Planning:

“The positioning of Mercedes-AMG as the performance brand in the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio will be further strengthened through the strategic partnership with MV Agusta. The strategic cooperation with MV Agusta will allow us to address high-performance enthusiasts with automobiles and with motorcycles. Through the cooperation in the area of marketing and sales, we will be able to attract new target groups for both companies all over the world.”

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