Stellantis could manufacture the next electric Maserati in China… and finish it in Italy

A few days ago, we reported that the project to The collaboration between Maserati, Huawei, and JAC Motors had reached several important milestones. But behind the industry discussions, many uncertainties still remained. A Chinese media outlet is now reporting some particularly interesting new details: two cars are reportedly already in the works, and, more importantly, plans for their production—to be split between China and Italy—are beginning to take shape.

According to information published by Futur Car Daily, which claims to draw on several local industry sources, Maserati has reportedly already outlined two projects as part of its partnership with Huawei: a large all-electric SUV and a large GT, which is also fully electric.

The electric GT might be the first to arrive

The two models are said to have different purposes. The SUV would expand the lineup centered on the Grecale Folgore (or replace it), while the GT would aim to consolidate the position currently held by the GranTurismo Folgore.

But contrary to what one might have imagined, the SUV would not necessarily be the first to be released. A source close to the project tells Futur Car Daily that internal discussions currently seem to favor the electric GT as the first model under this new partnership.

Above all, this gives a much more concrete dimension to the project that has been discussed for several months. Huawei would provide its technology ecosystem, including the HarmonyOS cockpit and driver-assistance systems Qiankun ADS as well as other technologies related to electric propulsion. JAC would handle the engineering and a major portion of the manufacturing, while Maserati would contribute its design, brand image, and international network.

Made in China… then finished in Italy?

This is probably the most interesting detail revealed by the Chinese media. For cars intended for export, Maserati is reportedly considering an SKD-style production setup, which stands for «Semi Knocked Down.» Production of the cars would begin at the Chinese plant in Hefei before being shipped to Italy for final assembly. By “final assembly,” we mean that the work related to the luxurious interiors, adjustments, and final assembly would then be carried out at the Italian facilities.

According to a source cited by the media outlet, this solution would make it possible to reduce costs while preserving the luxury image associated with Maserati. Above all, the automaker would like to take advantage of this program to make better use of the manufacturing capacity at its Italian plants, such as Cassino. The question we posed a few days ago—China or Italy?—might therefore have an unexpected answer: both.

Maserati is reportedly staying out of China

The sales strategy is also beginning to take shape. The concept of a car with a dual identity remains on the table: the models would be marketed in China under the Maextro brand—the result of a partnership between Huawei and JAC—while retaining the Trident emblem and the Maserati name internationally.

And in those foreign markets, Maserati would have greater decision-making authority. According to Futur Car Daily, the first regions targeted would be the Middle East and three major European markets: Italy, France, and Germany.

This new information therefore goes beyond the initial rumors. It is no longer just a matter of sharing technology with Huawei and JAC: two models are reportedly already in the works, the order in which they will be launched is under discussion, and even the production plan involving Hefei and Italy is reportedly being considered. However, the agreement has yet to be officially confirmed by Stellantis and Maserati… by the end of the year.