The global automotive industry faces numerous economic challenges as manufacturers navigate fluctuating demand, rising production costs, and the rapid transition to electric vehicles.
These pressures have driven many companies to reevaluate their production strategies and adjust operations to remain competitive in a transforming market.
Stellantis, one of the world’s largest carmakers, is no exception, according to Boosted.
Struggles Across Fiat and Maserati
The company’s Mirafiori factory in Turin, Italy, which produces the Fiat 500e and Maserati vehicles, has seen its production repeatedly paused due to declining demand.
After several shutdowns in 2023, operations at the plant ceased again on December 2.
Initially scheduled to resume in early January, Stellantis recently extended the halt to at least January 20.
The Fiat 500e, an electric vehicle designed to boost Fiat’s European market share, has underperformed since its launch.
Despite high hopes, the model has failed to meet sales expectations. Fiat has struggled in Europe in recent years, losing market share as competition intensifies.
A hybrid version of the 500 is under development but won’t be available until 2025 or later.
Maserati faces similar difficulties.
The luxury brand has worked to expand its presence in key markets like the U.S. and China but has been unable to generate sufficient sales to cover the high costs associated with producing premium vehicles.
Efforts to relaunch the brand with new models have yet to yield significant results.
