Stellantis Prioritizes Other Investments Over EVs in $13B US Plan

Stellantis, the global automaker behind Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram, has announced a significant investment of $13 billion to enhance its U.S. manufacturing operations over the next four years. This strategic decision is a part of a larger revival plan initiated by the company’s new CEO.

Investment Details

Stellantis aims to develop five new vehicles by 2029 as part of this investment. Manufacturing will take place across several states, including:

• Illinois
• Ohio
• Michigan
• Indiana

This investment will also facilitate the production of a new four-cylinder engine and the reopening of the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois, expanding the output of the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass models for the U.S. market. Overall, the project is expected to create over 5,000 jobs.

Vehicle Production Plans

Unlike prior investments, this plan does not emphasize electrification. Among the five new vehicles planned is a range-extended electric vehicle (EV), which combines a battery and a gas generator for increased range. This model will be manufactured at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, starting in 2028.

In addition to the EV, Stellantis plans to produce:

• A large, gas-powered SUV at the Warren plant
• A next-generation Dodge Durango at the Detroit Assembly Complex, slated for 2029
• A midsize truck assembled at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio
• The new GMET4 EVO four-cylinder engine, which will enter production in 2026 at the Kokomo factory in Indiana

CEO Statement on Growth

Antonio Filosa, Stellantis’ CEO and North America COO, emphasized that this investment is aimed at fostering growth and reinforcing the company’s presence in the U.S. market. He stated, “Accelerating growth in the U.S. has been a top priority since my first day. Success in America is not only beneficial for Stellantis in the U.S. — it strengthens us globally.”

Shift in Electrification Strategy

Over the past year, Stellantis has revised its electrification strategy for the U.S. market. Notably, the company announced in September that it would not include an electrified Gladiator in its Jeep lineup and canceled plans for a battery-electric full-size pickup. However, the automaker remains committed to producing an extended-range Ram 1500 REV, previously known as the Ramcharger.

This comprehensive investment plan signifies Stellantis’ commitment to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. while also navigating the challenges of the evolving automotive landscape.