Ford Motor Co. is in talks with several potential buyers of its Swedish unit Volvo, a Ford spokesman said Wednesday.

"Ford has contact with a number of parties that are interested in Volvo's future," spokesman John Gardiner told The Associated Press. "We are having preliminary discussions determining the interest."

Gardiner said he was pleased with the "quality" of the potential buyers but declined to disclose who they were.

"These are ongoing talks that could lead to a sale," he said.

Ford has previously said it was considering selling the carmaker as part of a "strategic evaluation," in which it will focus on its "one Ford" strategy, emphasizing its Ford, Mercury, Lincoln brands.

Analysts have speculated that Chinese automakers including Geely Holding Group could be interested in buying Volvo. Geely has denied the rumors.