Stellantis, a major player in the global automotive industry, is considering divesting its interest in a large electric vehicle battery plant based in Canada. Despite this move, the company remains committed to advancing electrification efforts. Recently, Stellantis made headlines by announcing a significant loss of 22 billion Euros due to scaling back its ambitious electric vehicle initiatives.
CEO Antonio Filosa emphasized that the current restructuring is part of a strategic shift initiated in 2025 to prioritize customer preferences. Additionally, Stellantis disclosed its intention to sell its 49% stake in NextStar Energy, a partnership with LG Energy Solution aimed at constructing a $5 billion battery facility in Windsor, Ontario.
While this decision raised concerns about the future of the automotive industry in Canada, Stellantis reassured that it will retain the hundreds of engineers hired in Windsor for electric vehicle and battery research. This commitment aligns with the company’s previous $3.6 billion investment in Ontario, focusing on transitioning to EV production and establishing cutting-edge facilities for innovation.
The company’s dedication to sustaining research jobs in Windsor is evident in its recent hiring efforts, with 650 new employees joining the Automotive Research and Development Centre (ARDC) expansion. Stellantis spokesperson Lou Ann Gosselin affirmed that ongoing work at the ARDC, including battery testing and development, remains unaffected by the NextStar Energy divestment.
Furthermore, Stellantis is set to introduce a state-of-the-art Battery Pack Testing Facility at the ARDC, reinforcing Canada’s position as a leader in EV technology. Despite the broader strategic shift, the company continues to offer a diverse range of powertrains, exemplified by models like the Windsor-built Dodge Charger, available in both conventional and electric variants.
In a recent development, Stellantis announced plans to hire over 20 professionals in sales and marketing roles across Canada, signaling a growth phase for its operations in the country. This recruitment drive reflects the company’s optimism for the future as it navigates changing market dynamics in the automotive sector.