Tesla CEO Elon Musk fanned the flames of speculation in Germany this week with a confirmation that discussions are being conducted between Tesla and BMW. Musk announced to reporters that the two car companies were discussing potential collaborations for improving electric vehicles.

BMW’s lightweight carbon-fiber reinforced components, which were implemented in their i3 and i8 electric vehicles, was of particular interest to Elon Musk. Tesla is currently using lightweight aluminum bodies with steal components. Transitioning to BMW’s carbon-fiber reinforced components could provide the desired strength while decreasing the weight strain on the electric vehicles.

“We are talking about whether we can collaborate in battery technology or charging stations,” Musk told German press.

The two companies are also looking to work together to produce better batteries and charging stations. BMW and Tesla had meetings in June to discuss shared charging stations and conversations in that vein continued this week in Germany.

Despite Musk’s openness about the joint discussions, official word from Tesla has downplayed the potential collaboration. The official spokesperson for the electric car company has announced that the discussions are purely casual.

“The conversation between Elon Musk and BMW has been a casual conversation,” Tesla Germany spokesperson Kathrin Schira told Reuters, “and not about a formal cooperation.”

Read More – Tesla Battery Talks With BMW Continues Musk Says (Chris Davies, SlashGear)