Stellantis Restructures European R&D, Cutting 650 Engineering Jobs at Opel's German HQ

Stellantis has announced a restructuring of its European R&D operations, cutting 650 engineering positions—approximately 40% of the engineering workforce—at Opel’s headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany. Following the adjustment, the engineering center’s headcount will decrease from around 1,650 to 1,000 employees. The site will be transformed into a more specialized technology hub, focusing on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), battery development, artificial intelligence applications, virtual engineering, and software components linked to Stellantis’ STLA Brain electrical/electronic architecture, while continuing to handle R&D activities for the Opel and Vauxhall brands. Stellantis did not disclose a specific timeline for the layoffs, stating only that the measures would be implemented following consultations with employee representatives. The company has informed labor representatives that the previously agreed project planning, which was set to run until 2029, is no longer applicable and further adjustments are necessary. Meanwhile, Stellantis plans to invest in developing a “Green Campus” in Rüsselsheim, consolidating headquarters functions, administration, design, and certain R&D activities at the site. Since Groupe PSA acquired Opel in 2017, the total number of engineers across Opel’s Rüsselsheim facility and other German sites has been significantly reduced from approximately 7,000, primarily through operational streamlining, functional relocations, voluntary departures, and transfers of staff to external service providers. Although Stellantis is expanding its global R&D network, this latest move further diminishes Germany’s role in its worldwide strategy. Additionally, Stellantis is engaged in advanced negotiations with Chinese automaker Leapmotor to co-develop a fully electric SUV under the Opel brand. The vehicle will be built on Leapmotor’s technology platform and produced at Stellantis’ plant in Zaragoza, Spain.