Stellantis, one of the leading players in the automotive world, and Chinese manufacturer Leapmotor are preparing to take their existing strategic partnership to a new phase of growth. The two companies announced their intention to expand their collaboration following the investment in Leapmotor and the success of the Leapmotor International (LPMI) initiative established under the leadership of Stellantis.
The main goal of the partnership is; It stands out as making electric vehicle production in Europe more accessible, more competitive and faster to market.
European production base Zaragoza plan
One of the most critical steps of the collaboration is planned at the Figueruelas Plant facility in Zaragoza, Spain. The new Opel C-SUV model to be produced here is aimed to gain a cost advantage with components to be provided from the LPMI ecosystem and reach a wider audience in the European market.
Within the scope of the plan, the production line is considered to be put into operation around 2028. Production of Peugeot 208 and Lancia Ypsilon models continues in the same facility. In addition, Leapmotor’s B10 model is on the agenda to be included in the production line by 2026.
Growing electric vehicle network in Europe
Leapmotor International has seen rapid growth in Europe following the launch of the Leapmotor T03 and C10 models in 2024. The company reached more than 850 sales and service points in a short time and made more than 40 thousand shipments in Europe by 2025.
After expanding into South American, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and African markets, the structure continues to expand globally with Mexico as of 2026.
New model in purchasing and supply chain
Stellantis and Leapmotor aim to increase cost competitiveness by expanding their joint purchasing processes. It is planned to take advantage of China’s new energy vehicles (NEV) ecosystem and establish a hybrid structure combined with European supply chain capabilities.
This strategy aims to both reduce production costs and shorten the time it takes for new models to come to market.
Critical step in European electric transformation
The partnership is seen as a key part of Stellantis’ aim to scale faster in its electric vehicle strategy in Europe. In particular, Opel’s new C-SUV model will play a key role in the brand’s BEV transformation.
Automobile Magazine – English News
Source link 2026-05-18 21:01:00
