Stellantis Deepens China Collaboration and Expands European Footprint

[International Cooperation] Stellantis is accelerating partnerships with Chinese automakers to reshape its global strategy.

Core Development: Shifting from Product Imports to Joint Capacity and Channel Building

Stellantis and Dongfeng Motor have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to establish a European joint venture, with Stellantis holding a 51% controlling stake. Initially, the JV will focus on sales, manufacturing, and R&D for the VOYAH brand in Europe, and plans to locally produce Dongfeng’s new energy vehicles at Stellantis’ Rennes plant in France.

Key Figures: CNY 8 Billion Investment vs. 3,210 Units Sold

Separately, on May 15, both parties announced joint production of Jeep and Peugeot new energy vehicles at the Wuhan plant, with total investment exceeding CNY 8 billion (approximately EUR 1.3 billion contributed by Stellantis). The goal is to begin global exports starting in 2027. In contrast, Dongfeng’s European sales in 2025 amounted to only 3,210 units, highlighting the urgency of breaking into the market.

Strategic Foundation: Leveraging Chinese Capabilities to Address EV Shortcomings

Stellantis is simultaneously advancing a plan with Leapmotor to co-own a European factory and exploring using Leapmotor’s channels to help FAW Hongqi enter Europe. This demonstrates Stellantis’ adoption of a “Chinese technology + local manufacturing” model to tackle mounting pressure from Europe’s electric vehicle transition.