Tesla in talks with BMW over batteries, light-weight parts

U.S. electric carmaker Tesla Motors is currently in talks with Germany's BMW over a potential collaboration in batteries and light-weight components, according to reports.

During an interview published on Sunday in Der Spiegel, Tesla CEO Elon Musk described BMW's production of carbon fibre reinforced car body parts as "interesting" and "relatively cost efficient," according to Reuters.

"We are talking about whether we can collaborate in battery technology or charging stations," Musk was quoted as saying in the interview. . He also told the magazine that he thinks Tesla will have a battery plant in Germany in 5-6 years.

Tesla makes the electric Model S sedan. The Palo Alto, Calif.-based company has made an impact on the auto industry with its technology. BMW makes the i3, an electric around-town car, and the i8, a plug-in hybrid sports car.

BMW has not released any confirmation of the deal. A spokeswoman for Tesla in Germany described the discussions as "informal," however.

"The conversation between Elon Musk and BMW has been a casual conversation, and not about a formal cooperation," spokeswoman Kathrin Schira said, according to Reuters.

Daimler, owner of the Mercedes brand, said last month it would continue to collaborate with Tesla even after selling its remaining four percent stake in the U.S. company.

Tesla has also worked with Toyota on electric SUVs.