Chrysler in talks with automakers in Russia, India

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich (Reuters) - Chrysler LLC has had talks with automakers in Russia and India about potential tie-ups and was approached by Fiat (FIA.MI), although no formal discussions with the Italian automaker are ongoing, a senior Chrysler executive said on Wednesday.

"Have they approached us? Yes," Chrysler Vice Chairman and President Tom Lasorda told reporters on the sidelines of an industry event, referring to Fiat. "At this stage there is no formal discussion going on, but there was an inquiry."

Fiat Chief Executive Sergio Marchionne, credited with steering a turnaround behind the Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Fiat brands, has said Fiat is looking for a partner for its return to the North American market.

LaSorda said Fiat has approached many other companies, too.

"We are not the only ones," he said.

Sources said last month that Chrysler was in talks with Fiat SpA (FIA.MI) with the aim of leasing manufacturing capacity and sharing retail distribution, which would allow the Italian automaker to return to the U.S. market for the first time in 25 years.

Chrysler is also in discussions with India's Tata Motors Ltd (TAMO.BO) about selling its Jeep Wrangler SUV in India and possibly other Asian markets, sources have said..

"When we look at alliances in different regions, we have had discussions with multiple companies in Russia," LaSorda said. "In India we have had discussions with many companies."

LaSorda, who declined to name the companies, said the automaker may decide on a Russian partner by the end of this year.

LaSorda also said Chrysler's owner, Cerberus Capital Management CBS.UL, was committed to "holding on" to the automaker for the long-term as it seeks out potential tie-ups amid a steep decline in U.S. auto sales.

(Reporting by Poornima Gupta; editing by Phil Berlowitz and John Wallace)