EVs take a backseat in Stellantis’ $13B U.S. investment plan

Stellantis, the global automotive giant behind brands like Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram, has announced a substantial investment of $13 billion aimed at enhancing its manufacturing capabilities in the United States over the next four years. This initiative is part of a comprehensive revitalization strategy led by the company's new CEO. As part of this investment, Stellantis plans to develop and manufacture five new vehicles by 2029, with production taking place at factories located in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. A significant aspect of this plan includes the creation of over 5,000 jobs, bolstering the automaker's presence in the U.S. market. One notable vehicle in this lineup will be a range-extended electric vehicle (EV), set to combine battery power with a gas generator to enhance driving range. Production of this model is slated to begin in 2028 at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan. Additionally, Stellantis is gearing up to produce a large gas-powered SUV at the same plant. The remaining vehicles in the pipeline include a next-generation Dodge Durango, which is expected to roll off the production line at the Detroit Assembly Complex in 2029, and a new midsize truck to be assembled at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio. Furthermore, the introduction of a new four-cylinder engine, the GMET4 EVO, is planned for production starting in 2026 at the Kokomo facility in Indiana. Antonio Filosa, Stellantis’ CEO and COO for North America, emphasized that this investment is crucial for the company's growth trajectory and aims to reinforce its manufacturing base while creating more job opportunities in the states where it operates. He stated, "Accelerating growth in the U.S. has been a top priority since my first day. Success in America is not just beneficial for Stellantis in the U.S. — it strengthens our position globally." Interestingly, this new investment plan marks a departure from Stellantis' previous focus on electrification. Over the past year, the automaker has scaled back its EV initiatives, including the recent decision to exclude an electrified Gladiator from its Jeep lineup and the cancellation of a battery-electric full-size pickup. Nonetheless, there are still intentions to produce the extended-range Ram 1500 REV, previously referred to as the Ramcharger.