Sunita Somvanshi
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa is pushing European policymakers to shift from discussions to tangible measures for supporting the auto sector during its current challenges. “A strategic dialogue is very important, but now it’s vital to act with urgency. There is no time for delays,” said Filosa, who took over as CEO in June.
The European car market has shrunk dramatically in recent years, dropping from about 18 million vehicles before COVID to less than 15 million now. As Filosa explains, “Three million fewer cars is equivalent to the Italian and Spanish markets put together, lost in five years.”
A high-level meeting between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and automotive executives is scheduled for September 12 to address the industry’s future challenges. The industry faces two major challenges: growing competition from Chinese electric vehicles and potential tariffs from the United States.
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Filosa outlined several specific changes he believes are needed:
First, help for light commercial vehicles (LCVs), which he describes as facing an “emergency.” Sales in this sector have dropped by 350,000 units, equivalent to two factories and potentially 50,000 jobs across the industry. He wants the EU to extend the period for calculating average CO2 emissions from three years to five years (2025-2029) and revise the targets.
Second, encourage fleet renewal through incentives. Europe has 230-240 million vehicles with an average age of 12 years. Filosa argues that “A European policy that encourages the replacement of older cars with new cars and a wider choice of powertrains would have a greater impact on overall CO2 emissions.”
Third, embrace “technology neutrality” by supporting various types of vehicles including hybrids and range-extended powertrains, not just fully electric models.
Fourth, create special incentives for small electric cars or “e-cars” inspired by Japan’s kei cars, which would make EVs more affordable.
Regarding Italy specifically, the Stellantis chief revealed investment commitments totaling €2 billion for manufacturing facilities in Italy, alongside €6 billion allocated for Italian supplier purchases during 2025. Key models include the new Jeep Compass at Melfi, the Fiat 500 hybrid at Mirafiori, and the future New Panda at Pomigliano.He also firmly dismissed rumors about selling the luxury brand Maserati: “I want to make it clear that Maserati is not for sale, but we need to understand which products to develop and which long-term strategy to adopt for one of our most iconic brands.”
