The head of the concern Carlos Tavares made it clear that there are constant offers to reduce the number of brands in Stellantis' orbit. The top manager admitted: the issue of "killing" on some brands was considered at the level of management of the car giant; In 2021, one of the competitors was ready to buy Alfa Romeo, and in 2023, a partner from the Middle East showed interest in one of the French brands.
Tavares rejected all offers to sell Stellantis assets. The top manager specifically noted that Alfa Romeo is "the biggest gem" of the concern. The strength and potential of the brand was demonstrated by the limited edition 33 Stradale supercar: according to Tavares, this project was only possible thanks to good management and competent marketing. Now the Chinese are again pushing to acquire one of the French brands.
Tavares did not say which French brand interested the Chinese partner and which partner it was. In the Celestial Empire, however, Stellantis had a joint venture with Dongfeng and only three brands from France: Citroen, Peugeot and DS. Last fall, Dongfeng became the sole owner of the Chinese plants of Citroen and Peugeot, and the terms of the agreement are such that the Chinese partner can produce cars under French brands for ten years.
The Stellantis concern has recently been in a strained relationship with the Italian authorities, but Carlos Tavares insists the car giant will stay in the Apennine country and continue to invest there. Stellantis' plan foresees the localization in Italy of two new car platforms and the creation of a factory for the production of batteries.