(Alliance News) - Stellantis is evaluating potential agreements with Chinese automakers that could see them invest in its struggling European assets, allowing the group to focus more of its investment on the US.
According to sources cited by Bloomberg and reported Friday by Il Sole 24 Ore, executives have met with Xiaomi and Xpeng to discuss options for reorganizing European operations, including the possible acquisition of stakes in Maserati or other brands. Also on the table is access to manufacturing capacity, as Chinese groups seek to strengthen their presence in Europe.
Stellantis commented that these are "normal business activities" and discussions with various industry players globally, reiterating that it does not comment on speculation. Xpeng and Xiaomi have not issued statements.
The negotiations also reflect the group's diverging trajectories between Europe and the US, where Stellantis has launched investments of approximately USD13 billion to refresh its lineup. According to some sources, the reorganization could theoretically lead to a separation between the European and US operations of the company formed in 2021 from the merger of FCA and PSA, although a full spin-off is not at the center of discussions.
The group has, however, categorically denied this hypothesis.
The talks, which have been ongoing for months, include the possibility of Chinese partners acquiring a stake in a future European entity of Stellantis, though there is no certainty that an agreement will be reached. Greater collaboration with Chinese manufacturers could bolster the European business by providing access to advanced electric vehicle and software technologies.
The evaluations come following the announcement of record impairments totaling EUR22.2 billion, largely linked to the scaling back of its EV strategy. In parallel, Stellantis is also considering closer collaboration with its current Chinese partner Leapmotor, with whom it is exploring joint projects on electric technology and software for low-cost cars destined for the European market.
By Giuseppe Fabio Ciccomascolo, Alliance News senior reporter
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