Without having to merge the Scania (SCVb.ST: Quote, Profile, Research), MAN (MANG.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) and VW truck brands, Volkswagen can mangle benefits from joint truck operations, according to Martin Winterkorn, VW Chief Executive on a newspaper interview.

"We do not need to merge the three brands to benefit from synergy effects. We will not make one single company out of three strong brands, says Winterkorn.

According to reports, last March, VW agreed to take majority control of Sweden’s Scania and is the biggest investor in MAN with a stake of approximately 30 percent, prompting speculation VW could elevate its MAN venture to a majority and form a massive automotive group as well. Furthermore, according to the VW Chief Executive, the approach is to employ a variety of brands while saving money on joint technology and purchasing. Volkswagen, Europe’s biggest carmaker, also makes light commercial vehicles in Europe and heavy trucks in South America.

The Auto Channel reported that Volkswagen’s largest shareholder, Porsche SE, has stated that it plans to lift its stake to a majority once it clears anti-trust obstacles, but Winterkorn said VW would still set its own course.

The headlines accounted Winterkorn would not rule out MAN’s taking over VW truck operations in Brazil at some stage, quoting him as saying: "That is certainly one of several imaginable options.

"Porsche SE, under whose roof the VW stake is being administered, will not make operative decisions for Volkswagen as an automotive company even in the future. Volkswagen’s heart will continue to beat in Wolfsburg,” added Martin Winterkorn.