We’re not entirely sure where to even start on this humdinger, but those of you that can remember back further than two weeks (not I) will recall Project Alligator, the absurdly named collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin. Back then, details were sketchy. Today, thanks to CAR UK, they are a little less so. Essentially, Aston has the brand cache and lusty desirability; MB has the deep pockets and gaggle of crafty engineers. To wit, the mild, full and plug-in hybridness of the upcoming SL will (eventually) propel the Rapide. Furthermore, Aston Martin is eager to ditch it’s slow-reving Ford-derived V12 in favor of Mercedes’ sex-pot twelve-pot and it’s dual turbochargers. The next Cl might underpin the next DB9, too. Of more interest (to me, at least) is the future of Maybach. Daimler execs are none to happy that Rolls-Royce is the ultra-lux barge brand of choice for rappers and sheiks and they want Aston to, quoting Chris Shunk here, “Build a better Maybach.” I’m standing at full attention because the next Maybach could very well lend itself to a sportier Lagonda supersaloon. Hey, gots to keep up with Lambo, right? Failing that, Aston could just raid Daimler’s SUV parts bin for the supposed Lagonda SUV. Does CAR have its facts stragiht about this potential half a billion dollar deal? Hard to say, but I for one hope so. [Source: Autoblog via CAR]