Stellantis has opened discussions with prospective buyers and industrial partners, including Chinese automakers such as Dongfeng, to sell or share its Rennes (France), Cassino (Italy) and Madrid (Spain) assembly plants. The company aims to reduce surplus capacity by granting access to technology and exploring joint vehicle manufacturing in Europe and China, though no agreements are finalized.

The Poissy plant near Paris is slated to cease vehicle production after 2028 as part of the wider capacity review. This move is expected to result in workforce reductions and disrupt component suppliers, prompting concerns among labor unions and local authorities.

Any deal involving a Chinese partner could draw scrutiny ahead of France’s presidential election, while Italy’s government has signaled openness to foreign investment in its facilities. Suppliers such as Lear, Forvia and OPMobility may face reduced orders, and union protests have already emerged over potential job losses.