Stellantis Revises Its Electrification Plan and Abandons Selling Only Electric Vehicles by 2030. The Group Prioritizes Hybrids and Maintains Focus on Combustion After Difficulties with Recalls and Low Demand in the US.
Stellantis surprised the automotive market by announcing a shift in its global strategy, as reported on Friday, September 19. The conglomerate, which includes brands such as Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Peugeot, had promised in 2022 that it would sell only fully electric vehicles by 2030.
However, that goal has been sidelined, and plans now prioritize hybrid models while also maintaining a portion of the fleet with combustion engines.
Change Announced During the Munich Auto Show
The change was confirmed during the Munich Auto Show by Jean-Philippe Imparato, the company’s European head. According to him, the global automotive market is undergoing rapid transformation, but still does not provide ideal conditions for the full adoption of battery-powered cars. This decision also indicates a cautious movement in light of the increasing competitiveness of Chinese brands, which are advancing with more affordable models and dominating strategic niches.
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The impact of the decision is already felt across the group’s brands. Ram has officially abandoned the production of the 1500 REV, which would have been its first electric pickup. The model faced direct competition from the Ford F-150 Lightning, Tesla Cybertruck, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. However, demand for electric trucks in the United States fell significantly below expectations, leading Stellantis to reconsider the project.
In its place, the focus now shifts to the 1500 Ramcharger, equipped with two electric motors and a battery, but with increased range through a combustion engine that acts as a generator. Thus, the brand aims to offer electric performance without sacrificing the reliability of a traditional engine.
Challenges with Recalls and Quality
The change in direction does not eliminate other obstacles faced by Stellantis. Recently, the group had to call back 75 units of the Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer EV due to a spring failure that could allow the vehicle to move even with the transmission in “P” position.
Additionally, hybrid models have also encountered problems. Approximately 92 thousand units of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Hybrid were called to dealerships due to the risk of sudden loss of power. These episodes reinforce the technical challenges faced by the conglomerate, which seeks to balance innovation with safety and reliability.
With this new approach, Stellantis makes it clear that it does not intend to engage in a direct battle with Chinese automakers in the 100% electric segment. Instead, it focuses on a more balanced transition, combining hybrid technology with the continuity of combustion engines. The strategy, according to executives from the group, aims to align profitability, actual consumer demand, and gradual adaptation to the future of sustainable mobility.
