Stellantis, e-cars will be produced in Pomigliano from 2028

The unions point to 'the partial modification of the previous plan with an attempt by Stellantis to penetrate the cheaper segment, which until now has remained uncovered', and add: 'we would not be surprised, however, if it were announced that this will be done in collaboration with other non-European manufacturers'. Not least because at this stage it is mainly Chinese-made models that are occupying the economical city car market, also in view of the incentives assigned in October, with Byd and Leapmotor in the lead, as is also shown by the peak in car imports from China highlighted by the latest Istat data.

As for the Pomigliano plant, from what the trade unions report, there is still no plan, but there is talk of a potential agreement with Dongfeng to flank current production - Alfa Romeo Giulia and Tonale in addition to Maserati's Grecale - with new production by the Chinese, with whom Stellantis recently concluded an agreement to produce two Jeep and Peugeot branded models in China for global markets.

"The management of Stellantis has already told us that on the Cassino plant they are not yet ready to expose us an operational plan," stress the metalworkers, "but we are asking for a very strong commitment because we will not accept the divestment of any Italia site. We ask that the 21st be the beginning of a discussion on the future of all Italian plants aimed at their effective relaunch'.

The high-potential E-car segment, intended to be produced in Europe and destined for the domestic market, has been recognised by the European Commission for its ability to support employment in the automotive sector, from production to design, and represents the European answer to a twofold problem: containing competition from Chinese players and meeting market demand for sustainable and affordable models.

With the awarding of the E-Car to Pomigliano, is the company's reflection, which speaks of 'significant volumes', Stellantis enhances the tradition of Italian industry that has always been dedicated to the mass market and the production of popular cars, such as the Fiat Panda, which is now the leading model, in terms of production and sales volumes, in Italia, historically produced in Campania.

The company had been studying the E-Car project for some time. Already last year, Chairman John Elkann had spoken of the need to create a new category of cheap, electric micro-cars, similar to Japanese kei cars, produced in and for Europe.