Stellantis opens the door to Chinese manufacturers? New rumours pending the business plan

Stellantis ready to sell brands to Chinese manufacturers and divest production capacity in Europe? The rumour came from Bloomberg and would confirm what has been written in the past, pointing out that the group led by Antonio Filosa has several problems to solve in Europe. Despite denials or no-comments from those directly involved, companies such as Xpeng, Xiaomi, Chery, Geely and Byd would have all the capabilities to acquire brands in crisis or plants with a large production capacity but currently underused.

While waiting for the business plan ready to be unveiled on 21 May, it is clear that Stellantis has decided to focus strongly on North America, with an investment of around USD 13 billion, in order to become competitive again in one of the most profitable markets. A market where President Donald Trump has scaled back emissions obligations and placed severe restrictions on Chinese manufacturers, including a ban on the sale of related models built in China from 2027, contrary to what is happening in Europe.

Clear division that could lead to a greater separation between the US and European divisions of Stellantis. A scenario denied by a group spokesperson, but one that makes sense from an industrial and economic point of view. It is no mystery that the situation in Europe for Stellantis is decidedly complex, with brands whose survival is strongly at risk and with plants on reduced shifts. A glaring example comes from the Maserati plant in Modena, where less than seven cars a day are currently being built. And Maserati itself could be one of the brands at risk of being taken over by a Chinese brand.