Antonio Filosa is set to take over as the new CEO of Stellantis on June 23, succeeding Carlos Tavares. Filosa, an Italian executive with a long history at the company, will be stepping into the role at a critical time for the auto industry. One of the key challenges he will face is navigating the transition to electric vehicles, a shift that has caused divisions within the company.
Under Tavares’ leadership, there were disagreements over the pace of the electric transition, with some executives attributing unsatisfactory sales and financial results to the push for electric cars. Filosa will now be tasked with leading Stellantis through this transition and balancing environmental sustainability with financial viability.
The company has outlined a new vision under European manager Jean-Philippe Imparato and Chairman John Elkan, emphasizing the importance of developing hybrid and range extender technologies to accelerate turnover. The goal is to offer a variety of competitive technologies to meet the diverse needs of consumers, rather than focusing solely on zero-emission vehicles.
Italy will play a central role in Stellantis’ strategy, with plans to maintain the country’s significance in the company’s operations. The Italy Plan includes the production of two economic models in Pomigliano d’Arco, highlighting the country’s importance in the group’s future plans.
One of the challenges Filosa will face is the delayed construction of the battery gigafactory in Termoli, Molise. The success of this project hinges on the sales of electric vehicles, which in turn depend on factors such as energy costs and production efficiency. Filosa’s key focus will be on reducing electricity costs and addressing other challenges to ensure the success of electric vehicle production in Italy.
Stellantis’ product strategy will also be crucial under Filosa’s leadership, with a focus on multi-energy vehicles that can accommodate various powertrain technologies. Upcoming models from Alfa Romeo, Opel, and Maserati will showcase the company’s commitment to electric mobility while also leaving room for combustion engines.
In conclusion, Filosa faces a complex puzzle of models and strategies that must be carefully managed to revitalize Stellantis. As he takes on the role of CEO, he will need to navigate the challenges of the electric transition, ensure the success of key projects like the battery gigafactory, and drive innovation in the company’s product lineup. It will be a demanding task, but one that Filosa is well-equipped to tackle as he leads Stellantis into the future.