Chrysler, Nissan in joint venture

DETROIT, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Nissan will supply Chrysler with a small car to sell in South America beginning in 2009, the two automakers announced in Detroit Friday.

The vehicle will be based on the Nissan Versa sedan and will be for limited distribution, the new partners said in a joint statement.

Chrysler, which primarily sells vehicles only in North America, has been working to expand its presence, the Detroit Free Press said.

"This partnership will give Chrysler nearly immediate access to vehicle segments in which we do not currently compete." Chrysler President Tom LaSorda said.