Renault is considering Daimler as a potential partner for sharing vehicle technologies.

France's second largest carmaker said the potential link up would lower expenses.

“We are in discussions with Daimler about serious opportunities, just as we are with other potential partners,” chief operating officer Patrick Pelata told reporters today.

Renault is open to new partnerships to share development and production of vehicles, engines and transmissions, Pelata said.

Daimler chief executive Dieter Zetsche revealed earlier this week the German company expects to choose a partner early in 2010 to share its Smart city-car brand and engine production for sub-compact models.