Prime Highlights:
Stellantis will restart production at its Belvidere, Illinois plant, investing in a new midsize pickup truck and bringing back 1,500 UAW workers.
The next-generation Dodge Durango SUV will now be built at Stellantis’ Detroit Assembly Complex, reversing earlier rumors of production moving to Canada.
Stellantis will boost investments in its Toledo, Ohio plant to enhance technology and product features for the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator.
Key Background:
Stellantis is taking decisive action in response to former President Donald Trump’s tariff threats targeting products made in Mexico and Canada. The automaker announced plans to ramp up its U.S. operations, including restarting production at its Illinois plant and shifting production of the next-generation Dodge Durango to Detroit.
In a letter to employees, Stellantis North America COO Antonio Filosa revealed that Stellantis Chairman John Elkann had met with Trump ahead of his inauguration, highlighting the former president’s emphasis on boosting U.S. jobs and economic growth. To align with this vision, Stellantis unveiled a multibillion-dollar investment strategy aimed at creating jobs, advancing technology, and building future vehicles in the U.S.
One of the most significant moves involves the revival of the Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant, which had previously halted production of the Jeep Cherokee SUV. Stellantis confirmed that it would invest in the facility to produce a new midsize pickup truck, returning approximately 1,500 UAW workers to the plant. This shift marks a reversal from the company’s earlier decision, which had led to workforce reductions under former CEO Carlos Tavares.
The automaker also announced plans to build the next-generation Dodge Durango SUV at the Detroit Assembly Complex, despite prior speculation that production could be moved to Canada. Additionally, Stellantis will expand investments in its Toledo, Ohio plant, which manufactures the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, to enhance technology and product features. The company further confirmed plans to invest in its Kokomo, Indiana plant to produce a new four-cylinder engine, ensuring the U.S. remains the manufacturing hub for this critical powertrain.
These actions come as Trump’s administration signals upcoming tariffs on products made outside the U.S., with Stellantis aiming to fortify its American production capabilities in response. Further details and financial results will be shared when Stellantis reports its full-year earnings on February 26.