Stellantis is expanding its collaboration with Chinese automaker Leapmotor to produce small, affordable electric vehicles in Italy. The two companies have already started joint work at the Mirafiori plant near Turin, aiming to develop urban EVs that blend European styling with Chinese technology and efficiency.
Joint Engineering at Mirafiori
Ned Curic, Stellantis’ Chief Technology Officer, confirmed at the Paris Motor Show that engineers from both companies are working together in Mirafiori, Fiats’ historic factory. Here, they are exchanging knowledge: Stellantis shares expertise on building European city cars, while learning from Leapmotor’s faster development processes and technological strengths.
Mirafiori has long been key for Stellantis’ small car production, including models like the Fiat Panda and the Alfa Romeo Tonale. This new cooperation aims to create a new family of affordable electric vehicles tailored for urban use, with the Citroën 2CV planned to launch around 2028 as one example.
Leapmotor’s Growing Role in Europe
Leapmotor has steadily increased its presence across Europe, including manufacturing facilities in Zaragoza and Madrid, Spain, where they work alongside Stellantis. Their technology is expected to influence upcoming Opel models as well.
Now, Leapmotor’s role will grow in Italy, with production expected at the Pomigliano D’Arco plant—home to the Panda and Tonale models. Combining Stellantis’ manufacturing experience and Leapmotor’s quick development approach offers a chance to deliver cost-effective EVs in competitive city car segments.
Strategic Need to Cut Costs at Italian Plants
This partnership comes at a time when reducing production and energy costs is vital for Stellantis’ Italian operations. Stellantis has raised concerns about high energy expenses at Mirafiori directly with the Italian government.
By leveraging Leapmotor’s low-cost, high-tech manufacturing methods, Stellantis aims to revitalize production lines facing overcapacity and improve profit margins in small car segments, which traditionally have been challenging. It remains uncertain whether Stellantis will also extend this Chinese collaboration to its other partner, Dongfeng.
The strategic alliance highlights how the mix of European vehicle design and Chinese manufacturing efficiency could shape affordable electric city cars in the coming years.
Source: motor.es