Chrysler Group is reportedly in talks with banks to set up a joint venture finance unit.

Chrysler is looking to build on recent improving sales figures and is said to want to have a partnership in place in the first half of this year.

This would be a year before its current arrangement with Ally Financial expires.

Chrysler’s majority owner Fiat has a joint venture with Crédit Agricole. Under that arrangement, the bank provides the financing and Fiat manages the dealer network. With a broader range of financing options than it currently has available, Chrysler would be able to offer loans and leases to consumers as well as floor plan financing for dealers to help them fund vehicle stocks.

Both Chrysler and Fiat are led by chief executive Sergio Marchionne, who is credited with Chrysler’s revival.

Companies mentioned in this article