Zhejiang Zhongyu Automobile Co. is negotiating a joint venture to build Daimler mini vans in China, a senior executive of the company told Automotive News China.

"We are currently in talks with Daimler AG," said Peipei Tian, executive general manager of Zhongyu Auto, in a telephone interview.

Zhongyu Auto has various automotive parts manufacturing facilities and is a supplier to Daimler.

Daimler did not deny the negotiations.

When questioned, spokesman Trevor hale responded with a statement. "We work closely with them as they are an important customer and body builder for our van business, and we will continue working closely with them," he said.

Zhongyu Auto Co. is also an importer of Mercedes Benz Vito and Sprinter vans.

Zhongyu Auto expects to build the Viano, Vito and Sprinter with Daimler in China in the future, says Tian.

In 2008 Zhongyu Auto sold over 400 imported Daimler vans in China.