Stellantis Revives Diesel Powertrains on Seven European Models as EV Push Falters
Stellantis is reviving diesel powertrains in at least seven European car and van models, reversing its EV-heavy strategy as it phases back into combustion engines. This shift follows a 13-year drop that eliminated one in three French car manufacturing jobs, highlighting industry headwinds in Stellantis’ home market.
1. Stellantis Resurrects Diesel Models
Stellantis has quietly reintroduced diesel versions of at least seven car and passenger van models across Europe, marking a strategic pivot away from its previous emphasis on electric vehicles. The move targets markets where diesel demand remains robust, aiming to stabilize sales as EV adoption faces infrastructure and cost hurdles.
2. French Manufacturing Decline Puts Pressure on Stellantis
Over the past 13 years, French car manufacturing has lost one in three jobs, underscoring broader industry challenges in costs, labor availability and competitiveness. This contraction increases pressure on Stellantis’ domestic plants to optimize operations and manage supply chains while balancing investments between diesel, hybrid and electric powertrains.