Korean Media: Stellantis, First Annual Loss, Considers Introducing Chinese Electric Vehicle Technology!
On March 30, South Korea's daily newspaper Business Korea published an article stating that Stellantis, which recorded its first-ever annual loss last year due to the contraction of its electric vehicle business, is now considering expanding its cooperation with China's leading EV manufacturer, Leapmotor.
According to Bloomberg, Stellantis is evaluating the integration of Leapmotor's vehicle architecture, battery systems, and electric powertrain technologies into European brands under its portfolio, including Fiat, Opel, and Peugeot. If implemented, this would mark a landmark case in which a major Western automaker sells vehicles in the European market while relying on core technologies developed by a Chinese carmaker.
In 2023, Stellantis invested approximately $1.8 billion to acquire about 20% stake in Leapmotor. It is reported that the two companies established a joint venture named "Lip Motor International" in 2024, with Stellantis holding a 51% share.
Currently, Stellantis is selling Leapmotor electric vehicles through its European dealer network. Should the technological collaboration expand, Stellantis could accelerate access to advanced battery and EV system technologies while simultaneously reducing R&D costs.
Recently, Stellantis has faced declining market share and weakening profitability, encountering mounting financial and competitive pressures. Publicly released reports show that Stellantis incurred a net loss of €2.23 billion for the full year last year—largely attributable to losses related to electric vehicles. This contrasts sharply with a profit of €5.5 billion in the previous year.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861072385175561/
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