FILE PHOTO: The logos of car manufacturers Fiat and Peugeot are seen in front of dealerships of the companies in Saint-Nazaire, France, November 8, 2019. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe

PARIS (Reuters) - Working groups at car makers Fiat Chrysler (FCA) FCHA.MI and Peugeot's owner PSA PEUP.PA are speeding up work on closing their alliance deal despite the coronavirus crisis, PSA chief executive officer Carlos Tavares said in an internal note seen by Reuters.

Tavares also said in the note the working groups were also speeding up work on synergies.

The crisis triggered by the new coronavirus has virtually wiped out demand for new vehicles, pushing automakers to temporarily halt most production and leaving them needing cash.