production in Pomigliano until 2030

“If the conditions are right we can extend Fiat Panda production in Pomigliano until 2030“. Words and music by Carlos Tavares, who spoke at a meeting with trade unions in Mirafiori. Although the main topic of the day was, of course, the Turin complex, the CEO also reserved an idea for the Campania plant. Previously, Olivier François, CEO of Lingotto, had extended the life cycle of the best seller in Italy by one year, from 2026 to 2027.

The car was also renamed, from Fiat Panda to Pandina. The reason? Not to be confused with the next generation, which will be born in Serbia, more precisely at the Kragujevac plant. The presentation will take place on an important date for the company: June 11, 2024, when it will be 115 years old. In a strange twist of fate, the celebrations will take place far from the Piedmontese capital, in the name of a strong pursuit of profitability, the number one goal pursued by Stellantis.

Turin is home

Reduced costs of production and equipment push us to expand our horizons, and establish ourselves as a global reality. Nothing personal, just business. But be careful not to fail: “We feel at home in Turin and Italy – explained the CEO –. We are talking to trade unions that represent 80% of the workforce, and we are signing several agreements with them. It’s a union that builds.”

“Despite the fear of the unknown – Tavares said, the negotiations with the unions were sincere and respectful. The trade unions have well understood that if we do not leave the faith we will trap our communities, we will lock them, here. if we realize that there are problems to solve everything is possible“.

The occasion was pleasant to the quiet souls: “There are false reports that Stellantis is leaving Italy. We feel at home here. We are the leaders of this market with a share of more than 34%. We have no intention of leaving Italy, we are investing heavily, we have projects, ideas and the ability to keep our promises”.

The threat of Chinese competitors

“They say we are not interested and that is why they call themselves Chinese. It’s fake news – shouted the Chief Executive Officer -. Fake news opens a window to allow the Chinese, but we intend to strengthen our leadership in the country. We want to help workers fight this fake news”.

So appeal: “With great respect and in a friendly way I want to say that I can only ask you, I ask you, I beg you, to turn off the fake news and the people who deserve our help to work. If we do not make these changes we will disappear because it is Darwin’s law”.

During the rumors of the arrival of the second builder on our peninsula, Tavares warns everyone: “The arrival of a competitor leads to a reduction in the market share of leaders like us in Italy. If we are under pressure we can increase the speed of production to reduce costs. Furthermore if we lose market share, fewer factories are needed“.

“Establishing a Chinese competition is a serious threat to Stellantis – concluded –. We will fight, but during the fight there may be casualties. Don’t expect us to emerge victorious without scars.”.