It is being reported that Stellantis is considering partnerships with Chinese automakers in an attempt to overhaul its operations in Europe, while it manages its investments in the U.S. The report arrives weeks after Stellantis posted a $26 billion loss in 2026.
Bloomberg states that Stellantis executives met with Xiaomi Corp. and XPeng Inc. to explore deals that would help its operations in Europe. Investment from the Chinese companies into Maserati and other brands owned by Stellantis is reportedly being considered. Part of the deal is also to allow the Chinese companies access to manufacturing facilities as they look to expand in Europe.
For American readers, this is where the story gets uncomfortable. Stellantis may reportedly be exploring Europe-focused partnerships, but it is also the company behind Ram, Jeep and Dodge – brands that still trade heavily on American identity. That means even the optics of talks with Chinese automakers are likely to land badly with U.S. truck fans, regardless of whether any deal ever touches Stellantis’ American operations.
Addressing the report, Stellantis said in a statement:
“As part of its normal course of business, Stellantis holds discussions with a range of industry players around the world on various topics, always with the ultimate aim of providing customers with the best mobility choices. The company does not comment on speculations.”
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Neither Xpeng nor Xiaomi has said anything on the matter. The report also makes a big claim that Stellantis may split its European and American businesses, considering the restrictions on the use of Chinese technology in cars sold in the U.S. However, the company has denied the possibility of a split. It stated:
“Stellantis states in the most categoric terms that there is no truth in the suggestion that it is considering a plan to split the company. Any assertion to the contrary is pure invention.”
To be clear, there is no indication from Stellantis that Ram trucks or its American brands are being handed over to Chinese partners, and the company has firmly denied any suggestion of a corporate split. Still, perception matters in the U.S. auto market, especially when it comes to pickups and SUVs tied so closely to patriotism, loyalty and brand heritage.
Ford Not Far Behind Stellantis in Alliance
Ford Authority reported American manufacturer Ford’s discussions with Chinese automakers such as BYD, Geely, and Xiaomi for batteries and potential partnerships to assist Ford’s production in the U.S. Even the Trump administration has reportedly been kept in the loop by Ford, but it remains to be seen whether the government eases restrictions on the use of Chinese technology in American cars.
MotorBiscuit reported the current state of the American automotive market, where the budget car segment is left wide open for potential Chinese automakers if they decide to manufacture vehicles locally in the U.S. This is because American manufacturers have shifted focus entirely to large, feature-filled premium cars.
The budget car market has too few options today, exposing a huge unclaimed market segment waiting to be captured by a competitive company. At present, Chinese automakers face the 100% tariff problem, which makes their imported offerings unaffordable.
They have also been banned from selling vehicles with connected technology in the U.S. due to potential data security risks, which means most of their products don’t comply with the law. It is said that Chinese automakers will make the most of the opportunity the day it becomes easier for them to manufacture vehicles in America.
