Stellantis to build mid-size pickup truck at Belvidere plant by 2027

Stellantis, one of America’s largest automakers, announced plans to build a new mid-size pickup truck at its Belvidere plant by 2027.

New plans for Stellantis

What we know:

The announcement, shared in an email to employees and obtained by FOX 32 on Wednesday, outlined the company’s broader U.S. manufacturing strategy. 

Stellantis Chairman John Elkann recently met with former President Donald Trump to discuss these plans.

"Our plans, focused on increasing market share and growing sales volume, entail a multibillion-dollar investment in our people, great products, and innovative technology, all here in the U.S.," the announcement stated.

Key Initiatives:

The memo detailed several major projects, including:

  • Belvidere plant: Production of a new mid-size pickup truck, bringing approximately 1,500 UAW-represented employees back to work.
  • Detroit assembly complex: Production of the next-generation Dodge Durango.
  • Toledo assembly complex: Investments in Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator production, along with additional technologies. The Toledo Machining Plant will also see expansions to support critical components.
  • Kokomo facilities: Additional investments to produce the GMET4 EVO engine, making the U.S. the manufacturing hub for this powertrain.

What they're saying:

"Stellantis’ investment in auto plants across the country, especially at Belvidere Assembly plant, is welcome news.  And with the support of UAW, our nation’s auto industry is moving toward developing a more sustainable, cleaner future for transportation.

"We are encouraged that Stellantis understands that, tapping Belvidere to build the company’s next mid-size pickup truck.  This $1.2 billion investment in Belvidere is a major win for our state, our economy, and the 1,500 workers who can come back to the assembly line.  Stellantis and the UAW’s continued commitment in expanding American manufacturing and creating new jobs across the country is critical to our economic prosperity," said Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

What's next:

Stellantis has shared its plans with the United Auto Workers union, expressing a commitment to collaborate on these initiatives.

The Belvidere plant has remained idle for nearly two years. It is set to reopen as part of a new agreement with the UAW, restoring 1,500 union jobs.

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