In response to changing consumer preferences and market trends, Stellantis NV is redirecting its production efforts towards hybrid transmission systems as demand for fully electric vehicles wanes. The company is looking to accelerate the manufacturing of electrified dual-clutch gearboxes by 10% at its Mirafiori plant, where approximately 600 employees are working on this expansion.
Leonardo Rossi, the plant manager, highlights the surge in demand for hybrid vehicles, prompting the need for increased production of hybrid transmission systems. This shift comes as consumers show a preference for hybrids, which offer a more economical and convenient alternative to electric vehicles, especially considering the challenges associated with charging infrastructure.
While the production of the electric Fiat 500 at a nearby site is being paused due to lower demand, Stellantis is gearing up to introduce 30 hybrid models in Europe this year and plans to unveil six new models by 2026. The company's joint venture with Punch Powertrain has positioned Stellantis with the capacity to produce over 1.2 million electrified dual-clutch transmissions annually across its facilities in Mirafiori and Metz.
Stellantis, the manufacturer of popular brands like Fiat, Peugeot, and Jeep, has prioritized hybrid production in more than 70% of its European plants. The focus on Mirafiori's transformation aligns with CEO Carlos Tavares' strategy to streamline operations and support the company's growth trajectory. The historic Mirafiori site, once a bustling hub for Fiat production, is being revitalized with investments totaling €240 million.
Despite concerns about job preservation following a decline in local car production in Italy, Stellantis remains committed to revitalizing Mirafiori. The site not only serves as an assembly point for the electric Fiat 500 but also houses the company's new battery technology center and a circular economy hub. Industry Minister Adolfo Urso has urged Tavares to make socially responsible decisions to safeguard jobs and prevent the site from becoming a relic of the automotive industry. Stellantis' investments in Mirafiori demonstrate a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and job creation in the region.