In a recent interview with Auto Bild, Mercedes' chief Dieter Zetsche denied rumors of any additional layoffs for the Mercedes Car Group.  Rumors circulated that as many as 1,500 additional job cuts may be possible, but according to Zetsche "The figure 8,500 applies... it is important for us to further raise productivity at Mercedes and allow the company to grow in a healthy and profitable manner."

Zetsche went on to further deny speculation he has plans on separating the Chrysler unit, stating "We are one company and can learn from each other -- even across the Atlantic Ocean."

Last month, Zetsche introduced plans to lay off 8,500 jobs from the Mercedes Car Group, a move that will cost Mercedes in upwards of $1 billion. Mercedes plans on implementing the job cuts over the next 12 months, with the majority of the expenses being posted in the fourth quarter of this year.

To read more of Dieter Zetsche's interview, you can check out Auto Bild's full article here (as always, it is translated from German, so it's a little difficult to follow).