Stellantis evaluates building Leapmotor EVs at Mirafiori complex in Italy

Carmaker Stellantis could build up to 150,000 low-cost electric vehicles (EVs) at the company's Mirafiori complex in Turin from 2026 or 2027, news reports say.

The company is reportedly evaluating the move as part of its agreements with China's Leapmotor, as well as deals with the Italian government increase manufacturing in the country.

Stellantis has agreed to increase production in Italy to a million vehicles a year by 2030, from 750,000 in 2023. The Franco-Italian automaker also has exclusive rights to manufacture Leapmotor products outside China, through its 51 percent stake in a joint venture with the Chinese company.

Last year, at the time of the agreement, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares had said Leapmotor vehicles would be launched in Europe within two years.

Last week, Tavares said Leapmotor cars could be manufactured in Italy if there was "a business case" for their production, adding that the decision would be based on "cost competitiveness and … quality competitiveness".

At present, Stellantis manufactures the 500 battery EV, a small car, at Mirafiori, home to its first Battery Technology Center as well as the circular recycling hub, which seeks to extend the life of Stellantis vehicles and auto parts by a 4R process that looks to remanufacture, repair, reuse, and recycle.