Google parent Alphabet may soon have a major ally in its push toward autonomous vehicles, as the company is said to be "in the late stage of talks" with London-based Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
There is no word on exactly what the deal might entail, but it is unlikely to include Google-branded vehicles, according to the Wall Street Journal. The company would instead sell its self-driving car technology to FCA.
Google executives have repeatedly signaled their firm's unwillingness to become a carmaker itself. The few vehicles Google has produced in house are testbeds and technology demonstrators, not precursors to a Google Car.
FCA is one of a number of stalwart auto companies that are working toward broader technology partnerships.
Earlier Thursday, Volkswagen -- the largest car manufacturer in the world -- denied reports that it was itself in talks with Google or Apple for Volkswagen's new "digital mobility platform." The German company is more likely to work with domestic rivals Mercedes or BMW, both of whom have also acted coolly toward California firms.