Alexandre
Nothing official yet, but the Mirafiori plant in Italy could well undergo a radical transformation thanks to a unexpected collaboration with Chinese manufacturer Leapmotor. Stellantis is reportedly considering the future of this historic site, with a proposal that could well revolutionize its production: assembly of low-cost electric vehicles from the Chinese brand Leapmotor.
This reflection emerges at a time when the European automotive industry is looking for innovative solutions to remain competitive. Mirafiori, one of Fiat's oldest and largest plants, faces an uncertain future, with the scheduled end of assembly of iconic models such as the Maserati Levante and the electric Fiat 500. It is in this context that the collaboration with Leapmotor takes on its full meaning, offering a glimmer of hope for the future of the site.
According to Automotive News Europe, Stellantis is seriously considering start production of Leapmotor electric vehicles at Mirafiori between 2026 and 2027. This partnership, made possible after Stellantis has acquired approximately 21 % from Leapmotor for 1.5 billion euros, could not only save the plant but also mark the start of a new era of car production at Mirafiori, with an ambitious target of 150,000 units per year once full capacity is reached.
Carlos Tavares, head of Stellantis, has confirmed the possibility of Leapmotor vehicles being assembled in a European plant, although no official announcement has yet been made concerning Mirafiori specifically. However, discussions appear to be progressing, although Stellantis is still assessing how cost-effective production of Leapmotor modelsa Chinese brand renowned for its affordable electric vehicles.
The decision to introduce low-cost production in a plant traditionally dedicated to top-of-the-range, even luxury models, raises questions. However, the urgent need to find a viable solution for Mirafiori's future may well justify this bold choice. With production of certain key models coming to an end, and the need to offer something in the face of the likes of MG and BYD, Mirafiori has made a bold decision.
To be continued...
They could just close plants in France, given that it costs an insane amount of money and that there are 5 of them, instead of closing the ones in Italy 🇮🇹 and that's not counting the 6 others that make different organs. Even if the Italian state isn't thinking of buying into Stellantis, it's time to get in on the act, or ask the French state to pull out too.
We've seen it all: Chinese dung made in Italy! 🤢
Yes, that's where we are. Why not make them in France?
But what is Elkann waiting for to sack Tavares and his clique and put a competent Italian who puts his heart and soul into Italian brands at the head of Stellantis? What is he waiting for, for the transalpine automobile, once the jewel in the crown of Italian industry, to disappear from the global automotive landscape?
Given the rumours in the corridors, a certain De Meo could take his place.
And what do the unions and authorities in Italy have to say? And what about John Elkann, that financial "captain of industry" and the great gravedigger of FCA (with the late Sergio Marchionne)?
So far, apart from Lancia, we can't say they've missed a trick, but now we're going to see the damage.
What is the point of constantly criticizing China in the (some) media and Politicians of all stripes for flooding us with every possible product of low quality!!!?? expected by the people including here the Automobile! This should calm the ardor when we call for help to keep our European factories running! Thank you Thank you Thank you All of you!