Stellantis Boosts Italian Output: New Models, More Hires, and Shift Restorations

To fulfill its commitments to the Italian government, Stellantis is accelerating efforts to boost local production capacity. Emanuele Capellano, Head of Europe, revealed that the Melfi plant has already begun producing the all-new DS 8 and Jeep Compass and will reinstate a second shift due to strong demand. In 2026, the plant will also launch a new DS model alongside electric and hybrid versions of the Lancia Gamma, with another new vehicle scheduled for introduction by 2028. This year, the Mirafiori plant will start a second shift for the Fiat 500 hybrid, hiring over 400 employees—accounting for the majority of the group’s planned addition of 500 new jobs in Italy. The Atessa plant will partially restore a third shift, increasing daily output by 200 vehicles. Additionally, the Termoli facility will continue investing in GSE engines compliant with Euro 7 standards and will build a new production line for e-DCT transmissions to ensure operational stability. These measures aim to reverse last year’s sharp decline in output—the lowest since 1954—and ease tensions with the Italian government.