Multinational automaker Stellantis finally clarified its production plans for the Melfi factory in Italy after a one-day strike of the labor unions last month over lack of clarity concerns, Reuters reports.
According to the Italian labor unions’ announcement on Tuesday, Stellantis will start producing five new mid-size electric vehicles for its various brands in Melfi, Southern Italy.
Production plan
Stellantis reportedly told the unions during the Tuesday meeting some details of its roadmap to alleviate the pressure between the groups after the strike in September.
It apparently aims to smoothen labor relationships in Europe when the group is confronting “prolonged strikes in North America over contract renewals.”
As part of the plan, Stellantis will officially begin production at its Melfi factory in early 2024, starting with a DS model.
After that, the Jeep Compass will follow, which is set to launch in 2025. According to the report, it will have various powertrain configurations, including a battery electric (BEV) and advanced hybrid (HEVs).
The automaker is also planning to have another model for the DS luxury brand.
Meanwhile, the other two models will go to Opel and Lancia brands. They will undergo production in 2026.
For those unaware, Stellantis also plans to officially halt the production of its current offerings, including Fiat’s 500X, Jeep’s Compass, and Renegade, from 2024 to 2025.
Call for government support
As per the report, the UILM union’s Gianluca Ficco and Marco Lomio are demanding the Italian government boost its support for the country’s shift to electric vehicles.
In that sense, Roam will launch a long-term plan for its auto industry with the automaker and other groups.
Moreover, the government is on track to establish a new automotive incentive program. At the same time, it is demanding Stellantis to raise its annual production again to one million units in the country.
See Also:
- Stellantis officially unveils its new EV portfolio
- Stellantis considers partnership with China’s Leapmotor, report says
- Stellantis’ goal of launching a $25k EV in the US collides with UAW demands
- Stellantis to launch more affordable, sub €25K Fiat EV
- Stellantis officially opens its first battery tech hub in Italy
Stellantis revealed that all these models in the pipeline will ride on the new STLA medium platform. Notably, the announcement advanced Melfi’s position as the company’s first Italian factory with clear and future-oriented plans.
