Stellantis, the result of the merger of PSA and Fiat Chrysler, appears to be reconsidering its commitment to electric vehicles. Flagship models like the electric Fiat 500 disappoint, raising doubts about the electric orientation of the range
In the rapidly changing world of the automotive industry, the transition to electric vehicles has become a major priority for many manufacturers. However, while Stellantis, the automotive giant formed by the merger of PSA and Fiat Chrysler, initially made statements about its commitment to electrification, recent signs suggest a slight retreat in this trajectory.
Sales below expectations
Sales of electric cars, although increasing, are not yet meeting market expectations. For Stellantis, this translates into disappointing results for some of its flagship models. There Fiat 500ealthough promising, experienced sales below expectations, just like its sports version, the Abarth 500. These less than encouraging results have prompted discussions about the production of the thermal version of the Fiat 500 in Italy (it is currently produced in Poland), raising questions about the continued commitment towards the electrification of the range. For your information, due to lack of sufficient orders, the Italian manufacturer has stopped production of its electric vehicle on several occasions. In 2023, Fiat hoped to produce more than 90,000 Fiat 500e, in the end only 77,000 examples were assembled. But Stellantis is not alone in this questioning of its electricity strategy. Other brands in the group also seemed poised to fully launch into the electric car market, but signs indicate a possible return to the past, or at least a slowdown in the forced march towards electricity. We learn, for example, that the next Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio, which seemed intended for an exclusively electric offering, are now raising doubts about their engine.
No going back, really?
Despite these signs of decline, Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, remains firm on the direction of the company. He insists that there will be no turning back from electric. However, he admits that the transition could be slightly delayed, until consumers are fully convinced to adopt electric cars, which is not yet won. Stellantis' long-term plans also remain confirmed, supported by the prospect of a potential ban on combustion car sales in Europe. However, the reality of the current market and the sales results of the recently launched electric models could push the company to reevaluate its strategy if performance does not improve. For Stellantis, as for other manufacturers, finding the balance between innovation and commercial reality remains a crucial challenge in the race towards a more sustainable future for the automobile.